by Lewis Ambrose

Arsenal are being linked with strikers continuously yet again this summer, with Arsène Wenger allegedly considering the likes of Karim Benzema and Alexandre Lacazette.

Either of those Frenchman would join fellow French striker Olivier Giroud at the Emirates Stadium if they were signed, but our current number 12 is not fazed by the idea of having another rival for his position. Only Alexis Sánchez scored more goals for Arsenal last season, and he did so in more appearances. When you go on goals per 90 minutes Giroud was actually more prolific than Alexis in both the Premier League and the Champions League.

“I am going to focus on my preparation. We are doing well together with a good cohesion,” said Giroud after the Barclays Asia Trophy win over Everton.

The striker is confident in his ability and would not mind seeing another striker some into the team. Last season saw Alexis Sánchez signed but the idea to play him centrally was left alone fairly quickly. Danny Welbeck was also signed but played second string to Giroud when the French striker was fit and Theo Walcott has also proven his value down the middle yet remains unlikely to displace Giroud.

“The most important thing for me is that the team is always improving,” the French striker said.

“I give my best every game. If there is another striker it will be nice for all the team because competition is good for everyone.”

If he continues where he left off last season it is fair to say that Arsenal don’t really need another striker heading into the new season. Even if we did sign one, Giroud would look to rise to the challenge.