The France international, 30, joined the Gunners from Montpellier in his homeland in a deal worth about £10m five years ago.

And during his time in north London he's weighed in with 99 goals in 230 first-team appearances for Arsene Wenger's side.

Giroud's place as Arsenal's No.1 striker was taken away from him last year though after Alexis Sanchez started playing through the middle.

While Alexandre Lacazette's arrival from Lyon in July threatened to push him further down the forward line pecking order.

Giroud was linked with Everton and Borussia Dortmund before the transfer window closed last month.

And he admitted he nearly waved goodbye to Arsenal while speaking at Wednesday's pre-match press conference.

Giroud said: "It is a very private decision.

"It is true that I was close to leaving the club because I wanted to play.

"After big reflection with my family, my close friends, I decided to stay.

"I thought the story wasn’t finished at Arsenal.

"The club gave me a lot and I still want to win some more trophies with the club."

Giroud will be hoping he's handed a start when Arsenal take on Bundesliga outfit Cologne in the Europa League tomorrow night.