Arsene Wenger has no doubts that Olivier Giroud can prove that he is one of the Premier League's finest strikers in the second half of the season.

The Frenchman is likely to return from a spell on the sidelines for Arsenal's trip to Aston Villa on Monday night.

"People want always new names, but what is important for us is that Giroud is back," manager Wenger told reporters. "He was a bit tired recently, but now he is refreshed and I am sure he will have a major impact on the second part of the season.

"When you speak to the coaches after the game they say 'oh, what a client he is'. Giroud has qualities that the rest of the squad has not got, he always gives us that strength.

"We have small players who combine quickly, so to find someone who can hold it, keep the ball, make some room for other players, he does that very well and gives us a very good balance."

Giroud has 11 goals for Arsenal this season.