Giroud feels weird playing back-up to Theo Walcott at Arsenal
Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has admitted that he has never experienced a situation like this - playing second fiddle to Theo Walcott in Wenger’s squad and he is looking to reclaim his role in the starting lineup, Guardian reports. Giroud scored both goals for France in their 2-1 win over Denmark on Sunday and he believes the manager still has faith in his abilities.
In the second half of last season, Giroud was one of the ‘untouchables’ in the Gunners squad as he impressed the manager with a string of outstanding performances for his side. The Frenchman has been deployed in the centre as a target man while his teammate Walcott covers the right flank on most occasions.
Walcott has always insisted that his best role is in the centre and he has been given a chance to prove his worth in that position this term. The England international has fared well so far in his new role, having scored seven goals in 13 appearances for club and country. While Giroud has scored three goals in 11 appearances for Arsenal so far, drawing criticism for his inconsistency.
The 29-year-old has not started a single Premier League fixture since their 0-0 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates earlier this season. Ever since then, the former Montpellier striker has been brought in to do a job for the Gunners from the bench.
“At Arsenal, I am in competition with Theo for the striker position.” Giroud said.
“But he is doing well at the moment, so there is no reason to change. Whether it was at Tours, Montpellier or Arsenal, I have never experienced a situation like this, I have often played from the start. I need to take positives and to harden myself mentally. It is something new for me.”
He further added: “I was in [Walcott’s] place in previous seasons at Arsenal. I imagine what he must have been thinking. But I feel that the coach believes in me.”
Giroud is confident of reclaiming his spot
The France international has stated that he is not worried over his lack of playing time and is determined to pounce on an opportunity to win back his place in the starting line-up.
“It has been for several matches now that I have played less, that is for sure, but I do not need to be worried.” Giroud said.
“I need a bit more game time but also to believe more in my abilities.”
Giroud’s club are second in the league table, levelled with Manchester United after eight games. The North London club prepare ahead of their away trip to newly promoted side Watford on Saturday.