Arsenal

Olivier Giroud hails Mathieu Flamini as missing piece in Arsenal's jigsaw

By Robert Summerscales, Reporter | 19 October 2013

Olivier Giroud believes that the return of midfielder Mathieu Flamini is one of the main reasons behind Arsenal's impressive start to the season.

Olivier Giroud has suggested that the return of midfielder Mathieu Flamini is one of the main reasons behind Arsenal's impressive start to the season.

The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League table after seven rounds of fixtures.

Flamini rejoined Arsenal on a free transfer in August following five years at AC Milan.

After returning to Arsene Wenger's team as a first-half substitute in the North London derby victory over Tottenham Hotspur, Flamini has gone on to make four league starts.

Fellow Frenchman Giroud, who has scored six goals in 11 league and cup games this season, is delighted with the contribution made by Flamini.

Speaking to L'Equipe, Giroud said: "This is perhaps the player who Arsenal have missed."

Meanwhile, Flamini has expressed his delight at returning to the Emirates Stadium, a place where he feels very much at home.

"I feel a little like I was never gone, but I'm not really surprised because I know this club by heart," he told France's largest sports newspaper.

Arsenal's season continues this afternoon when they play host to Norwich City, whom the Gunners have failed to beat twice in their last three attempts.