Olivier Giroud has admitted that Theo Walcott has deserved his starting place at Arsenal this season but does not believe he needs to be worried about the situation.

The France international was previously a regular for the Gunners but has only started three of the club's opening eight Premier League games this term.

The 29-year-old has still managed to hit the net on three occasions but his performances have been outshone by Walcott, who is finally considered to be capable of playing in a central role by Arsene Wenger.

Although Giroud is unfamiliar with his current role as a substitute he is adamant that he does not need to be too concerned with the fact Walcott has moved ahead of him in the pecking order because Wenger still believes he has much to offer.

“It is something new for me," he told L'Equipe. "Whether it was at Tours, Montpellier or Arsenal, I have never experienced a situation like this, I have often played from the start.

“I need to take positives and to harden myself mentally. I cannot simply take refuge in work. At Arsenal, I am in competition with Theo [Walcott] for the striker position. But he is doing well at the moment, so there is no reason to change," he admitted.

“I was in his place in previous seasons at Arsenal. I imagine what he must have been thinking. But I feel that the coach believes in me.

“It has been for several matches now that I have played less, that is for sure, but I do not need to be worried. I need a bit more game time but also to believe more in my abilities.”

Giroud has not started a Premier League game for Arsenal since the 0-0 draw with Liverpool in late August gut scored during cameo appearances against both Stoke and Leicester.