Per Mertesacker has backed Hector Bellerin to take advantage of Arsenal's defensive crisis by staking his claim for a place in the team.
With first-choice right-back Mathieu Debuchy currently out injured and back-up Calum Chambers suspended, Bellerin is likely to play against Hull City on Saturday.
The 19-year-old was thrown into the side for his first Gunners start in the Champions League loss at Borussia Dortmund in September, before starting the following week in the Capital One Cup defeat to Southampton.
Despite being on the losing side on both occasions, Mertesacker believes Bellerin, who spent time on loan at Watford last season, has what it takes to make the step up on a regular basis.
"He's a good addition to our squad and he can take his chance with Mathieu injured and Calum suspended," Mertesacker told Arsenal's official website. "He's got some great chances and he has to take them now because you never know what will happen in football.
"It's tough to establish yourself as a young player at Arsenal as a lot of the positions have two players in, so it's hard for the youngsters to impress in regular games. I have to encourage them to speak to me even though I'm 30 and have a lot of international caps. They have to be brave and be themselves.
"He needs to talk as well and that's what I demand from him. He listens a lot and he's a good guy, which gives him a good chance to be a regular pro at Arsenal."
Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta also believes Bellerin can go far and is expecting big things from the youngster.
"He can be the right-back of Arsenal for many years in my opinion, provided he gets the chance," Arteta said. "Mentally, he handles what is requested to play at the highest level. He's got pace, he's got technique, and he's a very positive guy."