Olivier Giroud reveals why he is happy to second fiddle to Theo Walcott at Arsenal

Olivier Giroud returned to the Arsenal starting XI against Everton

ARSENAL striker Olivier Giroud has admitted his is not angry to have been bumped out of the starting XI by team-mate Theo Walcott.

 

Giroud has been mainly used as an impact substitute by Arsene Wenger this season, and came off the bench to score in the victories against Watford and Bayern Munich.

The Frenchman was given his first league start since the end of August on Saturday against Everton and marked his return with the opening goal in Arsenal's 2-1 win.

The striker revealed he was happy to finally be given a start by Wenger, but admitted he understood why he had been dropped at the start of the season.

 

Theo Walcott has been preferred up front by Arsene Wenger this season

"I never hide," said Giroud. "I knew Theo was doing well at the beginning of the season which is why I was not angry about not playing, even if it was something new for me.

"The main thing was that he was on good form and he brought something different compared to me. We have different profiles and when he is a bit tired, I try to take the baton.

"I'm pleased to score but the boss can play with my profile or Theo's profile. It has been a few weeks of not starting and I was pleased to start. 

"I feel better when I play. I missed not playing a bit more this week."