(Video) Super sub Olivier Giroud scores double on Arsenal return to down Sunderland

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Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud made his Premier League return on Saturday after injury, and marked it with two goals just minutes after coming on.

The French international has his critics but ultimately he offers something different for the Gunners up front, and he showed that his lack of playing time in recent weeks hadn’t affected his sharpness.

With his first touch of the game, the Arsenal striker kept his composure and converted this cross from Kieran Gibbs to give his side the lead again just after they were pegged back by a Jermain Defoe penalty.

Having swung the game back in their favour, Giroud wasn’t finished there either as he did well to get his head onto a corner just a few minutes later which evaded the outstretched hand of Jordan Pickford.

Given Sunderland’s form so far this season it was a huge setback for them to concede in such quick succession and it ultimately ended the game as a contest.

In contrast, it was a happy return for Giroud who grabbed two goals and will now look to regain full match fitness to continue to play a crucial role for Arsenal in their pursuit of silverware this season.

While Sanchez offers pace and movement, the Frenchman’s aerial ability and presence in the box is certainly a more than useful option to have depending on the circumstances and opposition, and Arsene Wenger will undoubtedly be delighted to have him back and scoring goals immediately as Arsenal temporarily go clear at the top of the Premier League table.

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