Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud believes he has made a better start to life at Arsenal than former hero Robin van Persie in his debut campaign in north London.

The France international moved to the Emirates Stadium over the summer after much speculation linking him with a move to the capital following an impressive season with Montpellier.

Giroud netted 21 times in Ligue 1 as La Paillade secured their first domestic championship in their history, leading to speculation 26-year-old with a move away from the club.

Despite a slow start to life in England, the striker has mustered 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions for Arsenal and such stats have seen the powerful frontman insist he has made a stronger start than Van Persie back in 2004.

“I don't know a striker who isn't interested in his statistics. Since the start of the season, I've got 14 goals and 11 assists,” Giroud said.

“For a first season, it's better than Van Persie when he started, even though he was younger. When I arrived at Arsenal, there were some worries. But they were quickly sorted and now the Arsenal players understand if they play off me they can score.”

Giroud has since managed to score a goal every 156 minutes in his debut campaign for Arsenal, three minutes quicker than Van Persie – now of Manchester United – during his first year with the Gunners.

Much of the success is down to improvements in his game courtesy of video's shown to him by manager Arsene Wenger, the striker revealed to Le Parisian.

“It's all going to plan, but I know I can do better.  have room to improve, which means I can be more ambitious.

“I have matured in my mind. I have also learnt a lot, in particular with my back to goal. I control the ball more when I receive it and I read the situation.

“I am fortunate to have a coach who I can talk to and share things with. Recently we made a video and he talked me through how I can improve. On the pitch we know what we are doing. There is a trust and communication between us.”

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