GIROUD: MY HEART TOLD ME TO STAY

soul and in my heart which told me to stay,” said the France international, who watched Danny Welbeck and Lacazette start ahead of him on Friday.

“That is why. I have been hesitating because I am the most happy man when I play and I am on the pitch.

“I keep the faith and I still believe I can have an important part to play this season in the club.

“I feel good in my head and also physically. So I am 100 per cent focused on the club project.”

Giroud has clearly found Arsenal to his liking since his move from Montpelier for a bargain £9.6million.

He said: “I have been through five amazing years here so I felt like the story had to continue.”

“There are nice days to come for me in an Arsenal shirt.”

A place in the starting line-up is his target – and goals will help his cause.

“It benefits everyone,” he added. “It will make the manager’s decision harder and harder.

“It is good for him and good for us. Competition will allow us to improve again and again. Good competition forces you to always give your best.”