Arsene Wenger has explained his decision to name Olivier Giroud as his captain for Saturday’s 2-1 win over Preston in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
The France international provided yet another crucial goal, scoring a late winner as Arsenal came from behind to secure their spot in the fourth round.
Wenger rested club captain Laurent Koscielny for the clash, handing the armband to Giroud in his absence and says the striker has proven his leadership qualities in recent weeks.
“He has scored many goals recently. Everybody contributes and he’s in good form at the moment. It’s been goal after goal,” Wenger said via Sky Sports.
“I like to rotate the captaincy. He went through a period of discomfort when he didn’t play and that was quite long but he kept his focus and worked. He’s shown leadership qualities and that’s why he was captain.”
Arsenal fell behind yet again thanks to Callum Robinson’s early goal and were fortunte to concede further with Preston missing several good chances in an eventful first half.
Wenger admitted he was angry with his side at the break and congratulated Simon Grayson’s men for their display.
“Yes [I was angry], at half-time. We are at the top level in the Premier League and we were dominated,” he added.
“Preston had chances and we were just not at the pace the game demanded. Preston were organised and were quick in the transition. We were in trouble every time.
“They played in a very intelligent way. They are a good side, I was really impressed.”
Giroud has certainly proven invaluable in recent weeks, from his late winner against West Brom to his dramatic equaliser against Bournemouth and looks undroppable on current form.