Giroud "may soon" sign new Arsenal deal

Olivier Giroud says he "may soon" sign a new deal at Arsenal despite his bit-part role at the Emirates this season.

The France striker netted the only goal in the Gunners’ 1-0 St Stephen's Day win over West Brom on his first Premier League start of the season.

The 30-year-old, who has played second fiddle to Alexis Sanchez after missing the start of the season following an extended break after the Euros, also netted on his two previous starts, in the Champions League ties against Ludogorets and Paris Saint-Germain in November.

Giroud, who is out of contract at the end of next season, says he has spoken with manager Arsene Wenger about his situation but is still keen to extend his contract at the North London club.

"People have been saying I have signed a new contract, but that is not true. Maybe soon, though," Giroud said.

"I came back a bit late from the Euros and it was nice for my body because I could rest but not good for me because the team was doing well and another striker was doing well up front.

"This season has been difficult because also I was injured for a month and a half so it has not been easy.

"But it is all about keeping the focus high. Always keep working hard at training. I was speaking with the boss, we had a couple of discussions together and he explained to me why I had not played too much until now.

"As long as the team is getting better I am happy and I am part of the club for five years and I want to carry on. But we have to see, I need more time of games but we will see in the future."

Photo (Getty Images/ Julian Finney)

eir Sport channels are available across the eir Vision, Sky and Vodafone TV platforms as well as on the eir Sport app. All 6 channels in the eir Sport pack are available for free if you are a residential eir broadband customer.