Olivier Giroud has insisted that he is ready to compete with Theo Walcott for the right to lead the Arsenal forward line this season.
Giroud was one of the standout performers for Arsenal during the second half of last season, which propelled them to a third place finish following a patchy start to their campaign.
However, the Frenchman found himself on the bench in the Community Shield against Chelsea on Sunday as Arsene Wenger opted to start with Walcott, who recently signed a long-term deal with the Gunners.
While Arsenal won, Giroud admits that not making the starting eleven was a little disappointing, but stressed it doesn’t matter whether he starts or come on as a substitute, as long as it benefits the team.
“Yes, I was a little disappointed, but Theo had scored against Wolfsburg”, Giroud told RMC Sport.
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“As long as the team is doing well and winning and I am giving my 100%, it doesn’t matter whether I start or I am used as a substitute.”
The Frenchman also insisted that he doesn’t have a problem at not being first choice at the start of the season and stressed that he has the stomach for a fight with Walcott for a place in the starting eleven.
“On a personal level there is no problem. I am happy with where I am at the moment and I am ready to jostle with Theo.”
Giroud scored 19 goals across all competitions for Arsenal last season, but it remains to be seen whether he manages to dislodge Walcott from the starting eleven against West Ham on Sunday at the Emirates.
