Olivier Giroud has explained why he didn’t fancy a move back to France last summer, revealing he wanted to stay in England as he’s happy at Arsenal.

The 31-year-old had the opportunity to return to his home-land during the summer transfer window, but opted to stay at Arsenal. Lyon and Marseille were both interested in signing him, but Giroud wasn’t keen on a return to France.

“Why did I refuse OM? I have a lot of respect for what OM is. I was a fan for years when I was little with (Jean-Pierre) Papin and (Chris) Waddle,” he said, reports Tribal Football.

“I also have a lot of respect for OL when there was interest. It is not in relation to these clubs, but compared to a return to France. Why did not I want to come back? I’m happy in England.”

Giroud could have left Arsenal after the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon. However, the striker wanted to stay at Arsenal and fight for his place. So far, he’s only started in the Carabao Cup and Europa League, while Lacazette has started every Premier League game.

The French veteran usually comes on a substitute in those league games, but that may not be enough to convince national team manager Didier Deschamps to keep him in his starting line-up.

He was a part of France’s recent squad, but was on the bench for their 1-0 win over Bulgaria in World Cup qualifying. Lacazette started up front instead. Should Giroud’s starting spot for France come under any more threat, he may no longer be satisfied fighting for minutes with Lacazette.

Giroud has two goals this season so far. His most recent was his 100th goal for Arsenal in all competitions.