Olivier Giroud: 'We have to keep focusing and make sure we win our games'

Published: 17 April, 2014
by STEVE BARNETT

OLIVIER Giroud is aiming for a flourishing finish to the Premier League season as Arsenal prepare to tackle “four finals” in the race for Champions League football.

The French striker (pictured) produced a moment of brilliance to help the Gunners beat West Ham 3-1 on Tuesday, showing an exquisite first touch before firing home his 20th goal of the season.

Giroud, who has eclipsed last season’s tally of 17, is now fully focused on helping Arsenal finish above Everton.

“When you are a striker you’re always looking for the stats and assists,” he told Arsenal Player. “I am OK with my stats but I know the team will need me again for the last four Premier League games. So I need to score again and again.

“We need to win our last four finals.”

Arsenal are favourites to take fourth place after Everton suffered a shock 3-2 defeat at home to Crystal Palace last night (Wednesday).

Giroud, however, knows the job isn’t done just yet. “We have to keep focusing and make sure we win our games,” he said.

“After that we will see but first we have to do the job.”

At the other end of the pitch goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny echoed Giroud’s battle cry as he urged his team-mates to prioritise substance over style. “As long as we get three points it does not have to be beautiful,” said the Arsenal goalkeeper.

“Every game is like a cup final for us now and we know we have to get the result every time.

“The title has slipped away, so now it’s important for us to fight for the new challenge, which is the top four now. We are confident we are going to do the job.”