Arsene Wenger has dismissed suggestions that Olivier Giroud is no longer a first-choice player at Arsenal.
The French forward, 30, has scored three goals in two matches since his return to the side after injury, but Alexis Sanchez appears to have established himself as the Gunners’ main striker.
However, asked if he now regarded Giroud as “plan B”, boss Wenger said: “There’s no plan B with this squad – I never think about my players like that.”
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham, Wenger added: “The team that is more effective for the next game is what you pick and I consider everybody as a regular player.
“I believe that the way a manager thinks is just about the next game.
“If he is involved in your mind for the next game then he plays, if not then he doesn’t start, but he has shown that he is a huge asset for the club.”
Meanwhile, Wenger has indicated that Hector Bellerin, who missed Tuesday’s Champions League game against Ludogorets Razgrad, will return against Tottenham.
Spurs are hoping to have Harry Kane back from injury at the Emirates Stadium, where a victory could leave Arsenal top of the Premier League, depending on how Liverpool and leaders Manchester City fare this weekend.
