We list the qualities that defined Olivier Giroud and his time at the club, and show why this consummate professional will always be welcomed back.
The score was 2-2. The occasion, the FA Cup final. Arsenal had come from two goals down to Hull City, and deep into extra time, needed something special if they were to win their first trophy in nine years.
A fluid move forward saw the ball fall to Olivier Giroud who ran towards the goal line and flicked a delicious backheel for Aaron Ramsey. As Wembley erupted around the celebrating Arsenal players, Giroud hugged the Welshman, then tapped the badge on his chest. For me, then and now, this contribution epitomises the player better than the outrageous Puskas-Award-winning, scorpion kick goal he would go on to score in 2017. It epitomises Giroud the team-man.
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