Arsenal are blessed with with a large squad of performing stars at present, and with Olivier Giroud fit and ready to return, there could be argument for a switch in tactics.
The Frenchman bagged an important brace against Sunderland, after coming off the bench with the scores tied at 1-1, and he is now knocking on the door for a first-team place.
Alexis Sanchez has cemented his place into the role since making the switch to a central role this term, but it can be difficult to leave an in-form player on the bench, and their could be argument for playing two up top.
The Frenchman has talked up a possible partnership with the Chilean international, while also acknowledging the vast competition for places which Arsene Wenger has to filter through when picking his side.
“At this time, the coach has opted for the solution of Sanchez leading the attack, partly because of my injury,” Giroud said.
“So I now hope to get more game time of course. The coach makes his own choices but I am counting on myself to come back strong and I will work hard to do so.
“As with each year, there is competition for places at the big clubs. There are a lot of attackers with different styles of play.
“We have different profiles and can be used according to the team we are up against, but we can also be played together.”
Giroud has shown great character by vowing to fight for his place, despite the prospect of a possible extended stay on the bench, and his professionalism simply cannot be questioned.
I’m one of those rare pro-Giroud Arsenal fans, and am glad to see his attitude towards what could be a difficult time for him, and I’m certain he will still play a key part in our season.
Could Wenger opt to change the system to accommodate both as forwards?
Pat J
With Alexis’ having injury recently, I would prefer him to continue to play up front because if he went back to the Left he would have more defensive responsibilities and require more running. Also we are winning most of our matches with Alexis up front.
For the time being play Giroud off the bench or start Giroud when Alexis is not playing.
Make Giroud more hungry to score and let’s see him score when he comes on to the pitch
I am hoping to see more of Lucas as well either up front or on the Left
Alexis just scored two goals while being injuried
No one can tell Alexis to just sit and not play. This guy will leave 100% if whoever is in charge won’t play him every time HE feels fit. Wenger even less. The day Wenger will tell him he’s not playing because he must rest I bet you any money is the day he will look for new pastures. Eveytime he is talking to the press (not like he does it too much) it is the same line : I fsckin hate to sit! M’entiendas? Rest is for maricones. You play me everytime I want or I will be fsckin angry. Astalavista. You don’t like me when I am angry. Do I see Alexis in the first eleven at Old Toilet? I bet you any money that right now, at this very moment he thinks at the game in Manchester. Of course he will play. He is Alexis. He is no pu$$y.