Is Olivier Giroud An Unlikely Hero At Arsenal?

At times, Olivier Giroud may seem like the kind of centre forward to play for a Tony Pulis or Sam Allardyce side.  That statement intends no offence to the player or either manager, instead just reflecting an unavoidable point regarding the sheer physical power the striker possesses.

Giroud currently finds himself playing under compatriot and globally-respected manager Arsene Wenger, who in the late 1990s began to introduce a creative style of football to Arsenal that can still be seen at the Emirates today.  Play often focuses on smart possession and keeping the ball on the floor, as opposed to the more direct methods of certain other managers in this country.

Three years after promotion and just one year after a season where they barely avoided relegation, Montpellier won the 2011-12 Ligue 1 title with Giroud at the head of their attack.  An incredible 21 goals in 36 league games from the 6ft 4in striker helped the French club lift the first division trophy for the first time in their history.

A goal in each of Arsenal’s first four Premier League games of this season put Giroud well on course to better his tally of 11 from his debut campaign in England.  The Frenchman has also contributed a couple of assists to the side, which is only further evidence that he has been an integral part of the Gunners’ impressive start to this year’s top flight.

However unorthodox the signing of Giroud may have seemed initially, is he proving to be exactly what Arsenal have needed?

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