Martin Keown: Why forgotten Arsenal star has impressed me this season
The Arsenal legend praises Olivier Giroud's attitude at the Gunners despite a lack of first-team opportunities
Martin Keown has praised Olivier Giroud’s “good attitude” despite a lack of opportunities at Arsenal this season.
The Gunners forward has fallen behind Arsenal club record signing Alexandre Lacazette following his compatriot’s £52m move to the north London club from Ligue 1 side Lyon back in July.
Giroud has been used as an option from the bench to help Arsenal in difficult situations in the Premier League and the Europa League.
The 30-year-old scored a late winner in Arsenal’s 4-3 win over Leicester City on the opening day of the 2017-18 season.
The France international scored four times in 13 substitute appearances before Arsene Wenger handed Giroud his first start of the season on Wednesday night.
However, Giroud, who turned down a summer move to Everton, failed to break the deadlock as Arsenal were forced to settle for a goalless stalemate with West Ham.
Former Arsenal defender Keown has been impressed with Giroud’s attitude despite a lack of opportunities for the experienced striker.
“He’s remained intelligent and maintained a good attitude,” Keown told BT Sport.
“Not every player can cope with sitting on the bench. He’s very strong in the air and has scored some remarkable goals.
“I think when Arsenal need to change a game and go more direct, it suited him. He’s got a point to prove.”
Giroud will be hoping for some more game time ahead of France’s participation in the World Cup in Russia next summer.
The France striker has netted three times in six games in the Europa League this term.
