Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud admits he took issue with early season criticism from fans.

Giroud says he suffered as Arsenal fans compared him with former captain Robin van Persie, who had moved to Manchester United during the summer.

"If you replace Van Persie, then people demand a lot of you," said Giroud to Le 10 Sport. "The criticism was not always deserved, but I focused on what I could do.

"I develop myself every day in training. I enjoy every day and will continue to do so."