Olivier Giroud has revealed that negotiations with Arsenal over a contract extension have been progression well and agreement is close, as per Sky Sports.
The 30-year-old whose current contract expires at the end of next season, has re-established his place as a crucial player for the North London club following a wonderful run of form over the past few games.
It has been frustrating for Giroud at the start of the season as injuries and starting Alexis Sanchez as a lone striker up front meant that he was mainly used as a substitute.
However, there has been an up turn in his fortunes since December as he scored four goals and assisted two in his last four games, including a spectacular scorpion kick, an injury-time equaliser and a FA Cup winner.
The Frenchman has admitted that he enjoys is happy to be extending his stay at the Emirates club, which had looked less likely before his recent goal-scoring return to the starting lineup.
Speaking to French broadcaster Telefoot:
“We are about to reach an agreement for an extension [to my contract].”
“It was also a gesture of confidence, I want to continue the adventure here in this family of Arsenal. I feel good here.”
“When I spoke to the coach, he always told me that I was an important player.”
“I know what I am capable of. I just needed to be patient, to work in training and wait for my hour to come.”
Olivier Giroud has always been a highly-debated figure around the Emirates, right from the critics to the fans. However irrespective of what they feel, Arsenal need to keep a hold of the 30-year-old forward.
Having been left out of the starting 11 for various reasons ranging from lack of form at the beginning of the season due to his involvement in the Euros to Alexis Sanchez’s form in that top 9 position he had manned since his introduction into this Gunners team. He has shown great mental strength.
The French star offers a completely different dimension to their game, something that no other member of the squad is able to do. Whilst Alexis Sanchez is an exceptional forward and can score from almost anywhere inside or outside the box, he isn’t anywhere near as lethal in the air as Giroud.
This variation in his alternating play means Arsenal have a true forward upfront who can manipulate the game in more ways than one. Whilst he may well have been the forgotten man for most part of the season, he’s underlined his importance to the side with four goals in as many games since.
