Arsenal legend, Ian Wright, has said that it appears Olivier Giroud isn’t in a good place after getting sent off against Dinamo Zagreb.

The former forward has always been a big fan of Theo Walcott and made it known that he reckons the 26-year-old should start more for Arsenal. Now, Wright has highlighted Giroud’s recent difficult period as a reason why Theo should be getting the nod in the Arsenal first team ahead of the Frenchman.

Speaking after the match to BT Sport, Wright said, “I would’ve started Walcott just because he played against Stoke, scored a very good goal. Came on tonight again and scored a very good goal. He’s got the momentum.

Arsenal's French forward Olivier Giroud (L) leaves the pitch after receiving the second yellow car during the UEFA Champions League Group F football match between GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Arsenal FC at Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb on September 16, 2015. AFP PHOTO / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC
Arsenal’s French forward Olivier Giroud (L) leaves the pitch after receiving the second yellow car during the UEFA Champions League Group F football match between GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Arsenal FC at Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb on September 16, 2015. AFP PHOTO / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

“At the moment Giroud doesn’t seem to be in the right place. Booed off for France the other week. It’s just not quite happening for him. It’s Theo’s time. Arsenal have to find a way to play to Theo’s strengths.”

Giroud is having a difficult time and a lot of Gooners could probably forgive a run of bad form if that’s all it was; we have in the past with a few players. As long as the footballer appears willing to improve, it’s unlikely that they’ll come under fire from the fans – despite what the media like the report.

However, Giroud’s sending off due to the fact he can’t remain professional, whether the second yellow card was deserved or not, is concerning. The frustration the striker is feeling due to his lack of goals is obviously impacting on his behavior on the pitch.

If Theo does get chosen against Chelsea and wants to become a striker as much as he says, now is his time to prove it.