Olivier Giroud eyes Arsenal exit in January

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Bengaluru, December 12: Olivier Giroud considers Arsenal exit in January in order to get regular playing time and book his place in the World Cup squad of France.

The Frenchman is highly admired by the manager Didier Deschamps but with many top quality strikers out there in his homeland playing on a regular basis, could deny the 31-year-old his place in the Russia World Cup.

The France international was among the goals for the Gunners in his latest outing, but once again he was forced to start a Premier League meeting with Southampton from the bench only.

A record-equalling 17-goal return as a substitute helps to highlight how effective he can be as an impact player, but the 31-year-old is eager to start games and should not find it hard to get suitors for himself.

That could force him away from Emirates Stadium in the new year, with the experienced striker aware that he needs minutes after opting against a switch over the summer – amid interest from the likes of Marseille and Everton.

“I have the World Cup at the back of my mind weekly, almost daily,” Giroud told L’Equipe .

“Each time I go onto the pitch, it's to be more clinical and keep on track for the World Cup.”

He added: “If I wasn't able to leave this summer, it was because of the opportunities I had.

“It wouldn't have been good to leave for leaving's sake, but it's certain that eventually, even in January, I'm going to have to ask myself the question again.

“It won't be easy to find the right solution and take the right decision, but we'll look at the opportunities.”

However, Giroud has also stated that his national team boss Deschamps has advised him not to leave Arsenal.

He said, “During international get-togethers, the coach usually warns me against that.

“He has told me the things he wanted to tell me, which is totally logical and I understand. He wants me to play more.