Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted being ‘surprised’ by the incredible technical goal scored by Olivier Giroud today.
The French striker opened the scoring in today’s 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace, which helped them to redeem their place in the top four of the Premier League table (and our rightful place above our noisy neighbours).
Tottenham had leapfrogged us into third spot after their dominant 4-1 win away at Watford earlier on today, before we went onto gain all three points ourselves.
The goal that opened the scoring was an absolute delight to watch, and I simply cannot stop watching replays since the event.
Wenger said: “It was a great counter attack at great speed, and in fact the ball was kicked behind him and he had that reflex that surprises everybody who knows football and is what makes football great.
“It’s a surprise, of course a fantastic goal. I was a bit spoilt over the year by that exceptional quality that everybody had.
“It’s a reflex, and I think all of us can score this kind of goal, at the moment you have the strength, power and mental reflex.
“Olivier is very good in front of goal on crosses, but I’ve never seen this type of goal from him.”
Giroud has scored his second goal in as many starts this term, and looks likely to get the chance to continue that run with Theo Walcott currently sidelined.
His goal today has just backed up my defence of the striker over the past year or so when he has come under scrutiny from sections of the fans, and no Gunner can dare to deny the brilliance of today’s skilful goal.
Does Giroud now deserve to be preferred to Alexis in the central role? Will he hold onto his spot when Theo returns?
Pat J