Theo Walcott claims Arsenal once boasted a Viktor Gyokeres-type player sold for just £18m

Giroud made the switch to Arsenal from Montpellier back in 2012, stepping into a big role following Robin van Persie’s departure.

His early days at the club were not easy, but over time, he built respect within the squad for his overall contributions.

Despite not being a prolific scorer, Giroud was always appreciated by teammates for his work rate and ability to bring others into play. Walcott played alongside him on many occasions and has spoken about what made him stand out.

Speaking after Seedorf praised Gyokeres’ involvement, Walcott told CBS Sports: “We had Olivier Giroud. I played with Olivier Giroud.

“He was probably one player who was really an outstanding centre-forward because he got the best out of me. At times, he’s probably underappreciated as an Arsenal player.

“But the amount of goals he scored and how he affected the game… When I say affected the game, he occupied people, and it created more space.”

After almost six seasons at the Emirates, Giroud was sold to London rivals Chelsea for £18m in 2018.

Viktor Gyokeres brings a different dimension to Arsenal compared to Olivier Giroud

While Giroud was often underappreciated during his time at the club, there is no denying he had his limitations.

The Frenchman was brilliant at what he did best, but never quite filled the scoring void left by Robin van Persie. Giroud was not the type to rack up 30 goals a season in the Premier League.

He could be wasteful at times, needing multiple chances before finding the net. Gyokeres, on the other hand, is far more efficient in front of goal.

The new Arsenal forward has already shown he can be ruthless with chances, and that clinical edge might just give them an advantage in this year’s title race.