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The Gunners have been consistently linked with the French striker since he emerged in the first team for his local side Lyon in Ligue 1.

Wenger has now confirmed his admiration for the 20-year-old while reviewing France's chances in Austria and Switzerland for Eurosport.

"I think Benzema could emerge as a big surprise (in the competition)," said Wenger.

"He is 20-years-old, in France he scored 11 goals in 10 games, and he has fantastic efficiency (in front of goal).

"But he is also a good link player, he is not only a goalscorer, and I believe he could be an immense revelation at the European Championship."

Benzema, who can also play on either wing, has been linked with a host of European clubs along with fellow Lyon rising star Hatem Ben Arfa; but, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has said the pair are going nowhere.

"It is out of the question that they are leaving us," he said last month.

"Benzema and Ben Arfa are going to stay at OL until we win the European Cup."

Meanwhile, despite raving about Benzema, Wenger believes a more familiar figure could be the key to France doing well at Euro 2008.

"The key player will be Thierry Henry, he is the record goalscorer in France and when the game is tight you still rely on him," he said.

Seán Fay / Eurosport