Giroud Close to Complete

Giroud Celebrates after bagging his second against Brighton in the FA Cup 4th Round

He spearheaded Montpellier to their first Ligue 1 title in their history, scoring 21 goals in 36 appearances and also bagging himself 9 assists. With an impressive goal scoring record, he earned himself a place in the French National Squad representing them in the Euro's last year. Then a fee of around £12 Million ensured a move to the BETTER side of North London, where he currently has 10 goals this season, followed by 5 assists. Not a bad start for a striker new to the 'English Game'.

 4 goals in his last two appearances has won over the Arsenal fans of late and he has already given us a hint as to what he can produce. I knew from the start he is what we needed. Over the years we have lacked that physical presence that Chelsea once had in Didier Drogba. He may not be the complete striker as of now, however he has the basic fundamentals of being a world class striker. 

His aerial presence has proved effective in numerous games this season, scoring headers against the likes of Spurs, Fulham and Shalke. His talent in heading the ball aslo brings a different dimention to Arsenal's game. Its become a custom to every match, that Arsenal has tried to play that beautiful football we once played.

 Its been difficult to implement that style into our game again. Sometimes that style of football just isnt effective and is easy for teams to defend against. Giroud changes that style single handedly. He gives us that target to hoof the ball up to when we are under pressure. As well, he will hold the ball up and bring different players into the game. Against West Ham last week he brought both Podolski and Walcott into the game and we scored 5. When does that happen at Arsenal ?

However, not every player is the complete footballer. Some say both Messi and Ronaldo are still not the complete package and have certain aspects to their game in which they need developed. So for Giroud, there too are certain aspects to his game that need improvement. 

 If there is one area that the big Frenchman could fine tune it is perhaps to curb his habit of straying offside. Too many times this season he has been fractionally offside and it is both frustrating to watch and no doubt frustrating for him. It knocks confidence off his performance and breaks down the flow of the game. It would be beautiful if I were able to give him advice personally but it just isnt possible. If he just held his run by a split second, he would be able to use the momentum that he produces when he runs on to beat the defender. Once that is done, the rest is history..

As I have always said, the man has quality and poses a threat. Whats even more amazing is that he knows where the goal is. Ever since his arrival at the club last summer, I have had faith and I will continue to do so. Hopefully he can add to his impressive goal tally this season and lead this 'Silverware-less' football team to great things. 

Up the Gunners 

Keep the Faith 

Arsene Wagner