Olivier Giroud claims he has made a better start to his Arsenal career than Robin van Persie.
The 26-year-old striker is preparing to represent France in their friendly against Germany tonight after an encouraging beginning to life in north London.
Giroud has scored 14 goals in 34 games since joining the club last summer as he bids to fill the void left by Van Persie’s departure to Manchester United.
Although Van Persie is displaying form to rival the best in world football, his first season with Arsenal, albeit as a 20-year-old, was a different story.
The Dutchman scored 10 goals from 41 games frequently playing as a wide man and reached his full potential only in the final 18 months of his time at the club following a disastrous run with injuries.
Giroud told French newspaper L’Equipe today: “I do not know of an attacker who is not interested in his numbers. Since the beginning of the season, I registered 14 goals and given 11 assists. For the first season. It’s better than the beginning Van Persie had, even though when he arrived at Arsenal, he was younger.”
Giroud gave a second interview to Le Parisien in which he revealed manager Arsene Wenger has produced a video highlighting areas of the game that he can improve.
“It’s all going to plan but I can do better,” said Giroud. “I am fortunate to have a coach who I can talk to. Recently we made a video and he talked me through how I can improve. On the pitch we know what we are doing. There is a trust and communication between us.”
