Arsenal team news: Gunners ace set for first start of season against Ludogorets

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Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud is expected to make his first start of the season when his side travel to Ludogorets in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The French international returned from injury to score twice in the space of five minutes in Arsenal’s 4-1 win over Sunderland at the weekend.

In turn, he’ll be given a chance to build his match fitness and add to his goal tally, as reported by ESPN FC, when the Gunners go in search of an important three points to ensure they stay top of Group A along with rivals Paris Saint-Germain.

Giroud’s return will be a major boost for Arsene Wenger, despite the fact that the Arsenal boss has seen Alexis Sanchez thrive in his role up front so far this season.

Having his compatriot back available for selection will not only allow him to rest Sanchez safe in the knowledge that he has a more than capable replacement, but Giroud offers something different up front that will be a useful string in the Arsenal bow in certain games, as seen in the win over Sunderland.

It’s been a difficult few months for the French striker after he initially returned late to training following his exploits at Euro 2016 this past summer, before he then picked up a toe injury after making his comeback.

Giroud reiterated in the pre-match press conference on Monday that he is ultimately focused on gaining full fitness and giving his best for the team and isn’t concerned about whether to not he will have to make do with a back-up role.

Whether he replaces Sanchez, forces the Chilean onto the wing or plays alongside him will be up to Wenger, but ultimately with Arsenal looking to compete for silverware both at home and abroad this season, it’s a good headache to have for the veteran tactician.

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