Olivier Giroud has admitted that playing as back-up striker to Theo Walcott at Arsenal is an entirely new experience to him.

The 29-year-old, who has scored three Premier League goals in five games this season, is determined to win his spot back after losing it to England forward Walcott.

"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," Giroud is quoted as saying by Teamtalk.

"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 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."

France manager Didier Deschamps said earlier this week that he felt that Giroud had lost his confidence.