Following a stalemate with Sunderland at the Emirates on Saturday, new Arsenal signing Olivier Giroud has pleaded for patience from Arsenal fans as he attempts to fill the void left by Robin Van Persie's switch to Manchester United.

Giroud admitted the Gunners lacked a cutting edge in attack, but remained confident he can make an impact at the Emirates. He told Sky Sports "This could have been the dream start, but in Montpellier, I did not score for my first game, so I am not worried. Here, I will have plenty of chances and I will score." His 21 goals helped Montpellier to the Ligue 1 title last season, and the 25-year-old may have missed the best chance of the game when he fired wide when through on goal late on, but the French international was quick to remind fans that Van Persie also took time to settle. He continued: "Last season was wonderful here for Robin, but before that, he took time to settle. I am just asking people to be a little patient with me."

Arsenal face two tough away fixtures over the next few weeks, travelling to the Britannia Stadium to face Stoke on the 26th August and then making the trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on the 2nd September. Giroud has stated that he is confident he can make a difference during these tough matches: "I know Arsenal is a great club and needs a striker ready and efficient quickly. I need games to get confidence, and it is up to me to succeed."