Gervinho: Giroud needs time to settle

Arsenal forward Gervinho says new signing Olivier Giroud should not be compared to departed star striker Robin van Persie.

Frenchman Giroud arrived in north London in June with a burgeoning reputation after helping Montpellier to the Ligue 1 title last season.

However, Van Persie’s departure to Manchester United has thrust the 25-year-old into the spotlight, as Arsenal look to replace the Dutchman’s 30-goal haul of last season.

Gervinho believes former Tours striker Giroud will need time to adapt to the rigours of the English Premier League before he can hope to match his predecessor’s record.

“(Giroud) is very motivated, but I think that too much pressure should not be put on him,” Giroud said.

“Replacing someone who has scored more than 30 goals in the previous season is not easy.

“He will not resolve the problems immediately. He needs a little time. If the coach signed him for Arsenal, it means that he has qualities.

“He still needs time to adapt.”

Arsenal have been held to goalless draws in each of their two matches of the English Premier League season, at home to Sunderland and away to Stoke City respectively.