The 20-year-old has thoroughly impressed in the cup this season, along with some strong performances in the Europa League.

However, he has been forced to play in a unorthodox left-back position, as opposed to his more natural central midfielder role.

The strength in depth Wenger has in the middle of the park, with stars such as Mesut Ozil, Granit Xhaka, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere, has forced Maitland-Niles further back.

But Wenger believes he has adapted well and to playing out of position and could be set to stay there for the foreseeable future.

“Certainly his focus is better,” Wenger told Arsenal's official website.

“I think at the start of the season, the fact that I used him in defensive positions maybe made him realise that there’s no opening where he dreams to play but there could be an opening where he doesn’t dream to play.

“It takes you a while to adapt and to realise sometimes as well that you have the needed qualities to play in these positions.

"He is thinking like a defender and that’s what you want from him.

“It’s the quality of concentration."

Arsenal boss Wenger also praised his physical presence in adapting from youth to professional football.

"He has huge physical qualities as well," he continued.

"His recovery runs are good, he’s good in one against ones.

"Of course the challenge is to continue to develop, to continue to improve.

"He has a lot to do but when you get a chance in life, take it. That’s what you want from him now.”