Arsenal Receive Major Injury Boost Ahead Of Marseille Clash

Arsenal have been handed a major injury boost ahead of their crucial Champions League group stage match in Marseille with striker Olivier Giroud confirming he’s fit and ready to play.

The striker was forced to leave the field during the closing stages of Saturday’s 3-1 win over Sunderland, receiving treatment to his ankle after appearing to twist it as he tried to add a late fourth goal.

Boss Arsene Wenger feared the worst after the game and it looked as though the Gunners only fit striker could be set to join a growing injury list at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Giroud has now eased concerns over the injury after telling the Daily Mail that it’s not as bad as first feared and he’s ready to face Marseille this week.

‘It is not bad actually, not as bad as I first feared. I got a kick earlier in the game but no-one was near me when I did it this time.

‘I tried to connect with the ball a little bit too early and I caught my foot in the grass. I twisted my ankle but fortunately, it is nothing major.

‘I am OK, sure I will be fine [for Marseille].’

The 26-year-old has become a key member of Arsenal’s starting eleven and has scored in every game so far this season, including a well-taken opener against the Black Cats on Saturday.

With the likes of Lukas Podolski out injured, Giroud is the only senior striker available to Arsene Wenger so his absence would have been a huge blow to the north Londoners as they kick off their Champions League campaign in France on Wednesday night.

A positive start will be important against arguably the weakest opposition  in a tough group that also includes Napoli and Borussia Dortmund, and it looks as though Giroud will be hoping to continue his fine start to the new season.

How relieved are you that Giroud is fit? Share your views below.