by Nia Griffiths

Olivier Giroud has spoken about his decision not to claim the newly departed Lukas Podolski’s shirt number.

The striker has said that although there’s not some deep meaning behind his number 12 shirt, he would rather keep it and it’s not as if as changing to the number nine will affect his football. The number 12 has been the Frenchman’s number since he joined the club in 2012 and he’s not planning on changing it now. In fact, he has a pretty good reason behind his choice, which many fans will agree with.

Olivier Giroud v Aston Villa
(Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Speaking at Arsenal’s away kit launch in Singapore, he said, “I don’t want to change the number.”

“I’m not superstitious,” he added. “I have the nine with the national team and it was available, but I don’t want to change because people have bought my shirt with the 12.”

That’s very thoughtful Giroud, thanks.

He continued, “I know the No 9 is for the attack leader but I will not be a better player if I wear a different number.”

The 28-year-old was given a rest against Singapore Select XI on Wednesday in the Barclays Asia Trophy. However, it’s far more likely the striker will start against Everton on Saturday 18th when Arsenal will get a taste of what the Premier League has in store for them next season.