Olivier Giroud: I’ve had a better start at Arsenal than Robin van Persie

Arsenal and French international striker Olivier Giroud believes he has enjoyed a better start to his Arsenal career than when Robin van Persie first arrived at the club.

The 26-year-old arrived at Emirates Stadium in the summer from French champions Montpellier, following Van Persie's £24million switch to Manchester United.

Giroud has so far scored 14 goals and made several assists in his debut season for the Gunners, but the striker still feels he can improve his form and boost his club’s forward line.

"I do not know of an attacker who is not interested in his numbers,” Giroud told French newspaper L'Equipe.

"Since the beginning of the season, I registered 14 goals and given 11 assists, in my first season.

"It is better than the start Van Persie had, even though when he arrived at Arsenal he was younger.

“It is all going to plan, but I can do better. I have room to improve, which means I can be more ambitious.

"I have matured in my mind. I have also learnt a lot, in particular with my back to goal. I control the ball more when I receive it and I read the situation.

"On the pitch we all know what we are doing. There is a trust and communication between the whole team."