Olivier Giroud admits being second choice behind Theo Walcott at Arsenal is something he has never experienced before, but he is determined to fight for his place in the team.
Giroud has lost his spot in Arsene Wenger's starting XI to Walcott in recent weeks and has started just three Premier League games this season.
Walcott is currently repaying Wenger's faith in him with four goals in his last seven matches, while he also bagged two assists in the 3-0 victory over Manchester United, but Giroud insists he is not too worried about the situation just yet.
"It is something new for me. Whether it was at Tours, Montpellier or Arsenal, I have never experienced a situation like this. I have often played from the start," Team Talk quotes Giroud as telling reporters.
"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.
"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."