Olivier Giroud was purchased from French outfit Montpellier last summer as a replacement for Robin van Persie, who eventually departed for Manchester United. Giroud had big boots to fill, given the phenomenal season van Persie just had prior to his switch to Old Trafford. Therefore, the expectations on Giroud’s shoulders were huge.

The pressure did throw him off a bit in the opening few weeks of the season, but once he got his debut goal he started settling in London and if one looks at his statistics, scoring 17 goals in his debut season in England does sound respectable. He has also been in fine form in Arsenal’s pre-season tour as he scored 6 goals in 3 games.

The Gunners have recognized a need to strengthen their attack next season and have a lot of money to spend. They have therefore been linked with Liverpool’s Luis Suarez who is unhappy on Liverpool’s inability to give him Champions League football. Therefore, Arsenal have identified a potential there and have made two bids for the Uruguayan, which have unfortunately been rejected by the Anfield club. They are though expected to make one more bid and land their man.

Suarez’s potential arrival could reduce the game time Giroud enjoyed last season. However, Daily Mail reports that the French international is not thinking about that and is instead excited to face some healthy competition. When asked about it, he said, “I’m not worried. I have heard a lot of things and I know we need a striker.”

“The most important thing is the team. We are waiting for one (new striker) but we don’t know. I think it will be good for the team and for me to have another striker, to have more competition between us.

“But I think I could play with him or without him. So I will be able to be in the first XI this season. I really want to be in the first XI this season.

“I know I have to be really efficient with my club and I want to be the first striker of this team.”