Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has stated that he is ready to start for the Gunners this weekend when they take on Southamption according to the Standard.
The 29-year-old has played just 12 minutes of Premier League football this season against Leicester City, after missing the season opener against Liverpool
Giroud was given an extended break after leading the France national team to the Euro 2016 final over the summer. The powerful striker did however play for France this evening against Belarus.
“It is down to a lack of training since I got back from holiday,” Giroud told the Standard.
“It if had been a priority, the manager would have asked me to come back sooner. That wasn’t the case. Don’t worry, everything is fine. I’m used to people doubting me. Since the start of my career, it has been the same.
“Maybe I need that so I don’t get too comfortable but between last season and the Euros, I’ve got no reason to doubt myself.”
Giroud will face competition for a starting place after Arsenal signed Lucas Perez from Deportivo. The Chile international Alexis Sanchez has been been leading the line for Arsenal in Giroud’s absence.
The Gunners host Southampton at the Emirates stadium this weekend. Arsenal will be looking to build upon their first win of the season which they recorded over Watford FC.
Giroud provided eight assists and scored 16 goals in 47 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal last season.
Follow Eren Sarigul @TurkzZ