Arsenal

Arsene Wenger: 'Olivier Giroud will get opportunities'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 22 November 2016

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists that Olivier Giroud will get more opportunities in the starting lineup as the season progresses.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted that Olivier Giroud will get regular opportunities in the starting lineup.

The Frenchman has struggled with fitness so far this season and is yet to make a Premier League start for the Gunners, with Alexis Sanchez being preferred as their central striker in recent weeks.

However, Giroud came off the bench to rescue a point for Arsenal against Manchester United at the weekend, and Wenger reassured his compatriot that he is still very much in his plans.

When asked whether he now views Giroud as an impact player, Wenger told reporters: "No, not really. I have only good players.

"Every week I leave top players on the bench. I rotate as well, a little bit. Olivier Giroud has been out a long time and is ready now to compete again.

"It will change game to game, and I will make rotations, but he will not be on the bench forever. He will have opportunities. I have not decided yet [if he will start against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday]."

Giroud has scored three league goals in six substitute appearances for Arsenal this season.