Wenger clarifies Giroud’s future role at Arsenal

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insists Olivier Giroud still has a part to play from the start in some matches.

Striker Giroud came off the bench on Saturday to score a late equaliser against Manchester United, his third Premier League goal from just six substitute appearances.

The Frenchman has only played 90 minutes once – against Ludogorets in the Champions League – with Alexis Sanchez and Lucas Perez mainly operating in the central striker’s role.

But Wenger says Giroud, despite being yet to start a top-flight game, will get his chance.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Wednesday’s game with Paris St-Germain, the Gunners boss said: “Every week I put players on the bench, and I rotate as well a little bit.

“Olivier Giroud has been out for a long time but he’s ready now to compete again and from game to game it will change a little bit.

“He will play games, he will be on the bench sometimes like everybody else. Will he start against PSG? I have not decided yet.”

Wenger also gave an update on the fitness of Perez and Santi Cazorla, and revealed that Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey had missed training on Tuesday but should be fit for the PSG game.