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Olivier Giroud backs Arsenal to mount a title challenge next season

Olivier Giroud of Arsenal holds off John Terry and Gary Cahill of Chelsea, Premier League
Image: Olivier Giroud: Feels Arsenal can mount title challenge next term

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud believes his team are well placed to mount a serious challenge for the title next season.

Giroud has echoed Gunners boss Arsene Wenger in his assertion that the squad is making up ground on Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United after almost a decade of finishing outside the top two places in the Premier League.

Arsenal matched champions-elect Chelsea in Sunday’s 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium, although Wenger has still to defeat a Jose Mourinho team in 12 attempts.

And asked if the Gunners can improve further next season, Giroud expressed his confidence.

"Yes, I think we can," the France international said.

"Hopefully we will have less injuries and if we keep this group, with maybe one or two new players coming in, we can have a great season.

"I know we can still improve as we have been doing since I signed. I am proud about it and pleased with that.

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"I just want to carry on like that and I know if we keep our best players, this determination and team spirit, I am sure we are going to join the championship race."

Giroud has scored 18 goals this term, despite missing three months with a broken leg, and he is convinced he can continue to lead the line for Arsenal.

"Mental strength is hugely important when you are a football player and even more as a striker. You have people who doubt your abilities and you have to believe that you can always come back," the former Montpellier frontman said.

"If you miss chances in one game, it is not because you have lost your talent or your belief. You have to be faithful to your qualities. That is part of being a player, being strong in your head.

"In football you have to question yourself every week, be ready in your head and you have to be 100 per cent determined if you want to keep going in the games."

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