Olivier Giroud has revealed he takes a step-by-step approach to development, and will continue to do so following his fine start to the season.
The 27-year-old joined Arsenal last summer, in the midst of the controversial departure of Robin van Persie to Manchester United. The Dutchman had a hugely prolific campaign in front of goal for the Gunners before his £22million move to Old Trafford, so Giroud, signed from Montpellier for £9.6million, had a lot to live up to.
Although the France international was unable to help the Londoners end their silverware drought, he had an impressive enough debut season in England, scoring 11 goals in 34 Premier League outings as Arsene Wenger’s side clinched fourth place in the standings. And this term he has started in even better form, already scoring four times in the competition as well as netting against Napoli in the UEFA Champions League.
Giroud is fast becoming a firm favourite at the Emirates Stadium, and has recently edged out Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema for the central striking role for the national side. However, the former Grenoble and Tours man is determined to stay grounded despite his success, and insists he will continue his gradual approach to development.
“What has always made me succeed is the fact I set sensible objectives,” he told France Football. “I grew that way, step by step. Before thinking about Ballon d’Or, before being part of the top 10 players in the world, I first have to be in top 10 forwards in England. That is a short-term objective. Talking about that two years ago, I would have said it was not sensible. Now I am aware I have the right potential to make it.”
Giroud’s goal against Napoli was the second in a 2-0 win for Arsenal, which puts them top of a tough-looking Group F with a 100% record after two matches. His goal was created, perhaps almost inevitably, by £42.5million summer recruit Mesut Ozil who had earlier notched the first against the Italians. The German international is making a huge impact for the Gunners, and this isn’t lost on his 6ft 4in striking colleague.
“It is really simple to find him on the pitch and I have a really good understanding with him,” Giroud is quoted on sportsmole.co.uk. “He knows to do the right thing at the right moment. This is his first goal, but he has provided a lot. I think it was his fifth or sixth assist since he joined. He was the man we needed to really improve our side.”
