Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud was happy to take aim at his French critics on local radio yesterday.

Giroud was hammered for his role in Arsenal's Champions League first-leg defeat to AS Monaco, before bouncing back over the past fortnight.

"I know who I am, I know what I'm saying. People who know me know that I am no different to anyone else," he told RMC.

"I got a little criticism (after the first leg against Monaco). But it's good to have shown mental strength to come back even stronger and prove those critics do not affect me. I've created a shell, whether in good or bad times. I know when I'm good or not.

"I do not need other people to tell me that."