I can play alongside Sanchez – Giroud

Olivier Giroud has told French television show Telefoot that there is “no doubt” over his Arsenal future and that he believes he can play alongside Alexis Sanchez.

It follows recent reports that Giroud, 30, might not be in boss Arsene Wenger’s plans after Sanchez’s performances as a striker while the France international was recently sidelined.

“At this time, the coach has opted for the solution of Sanchez leading the attack, partly because of my injury,” Giroud said.

“So I now hope to get more game time of course. The coach makes his own choices but I am counting on myself to come back strong and I will work hard to do so.

“As with each year, there is competition for places at the big clubs. There are a lot of attackers with different styles of play.

“We have different profiles and can be used according to the team we are up against, but we can also be played together.”

Giroud was out for a month with a toe problem but has since made an emphatic return to action, scoring three goals in two matches.

Meanwhile, speculation continues over the futures of Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, who remain in talks with Arsenal over new contracts.