Wenger Offers Positive Injury Update On Olivier Giroud

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has given a positive update on the fitness of Olivier Giroud after telling French TV that the striker is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a fractured tibia.

Giroud has been on the sidelines since suffering a freak injury during the closing stages of our 2-2 draw away at Everton back in August when he appeared to suffer an ankle injury while blocking a clearance in the final minute.

After further examinations, it turned out the Frenchman had in fact fractured his tibia and was ruled out until late December, with many feeling we wouldn’t see the 28-year-old until the New Year.

However, speaking to BeIN Sports this evening, Arsene has hinted that Giroud could be back sooner than expected after confirming the striker is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation.

Arsène Wenger on Olivier Giroud to BeIN Sports: "I think he is ahead of schedule in terms of rehabilitation."

— Get French Football (@GFN_France) October 12, 2014

Giroud’s injury forced Arsene to sign Danny Welbeck from Manchester United on deadline day and while he’s settled into life at the Emirates extremely well, it would be a big boost to have Olivier back as it would give us another vital option up front.

We’ve certainly missed his physical presence at times in recent weeks and Welbeck isn’t going to be able to play every minute of every game. In fact, the 23-year-old limped off while playing for England tonight so hopefully he won’t be joining Giroud on the sidelines, otherwise we’ll really be exposed up front.