Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud says he listened to his "heart" in order to stay this season.

West Ham, Everton and Marseille were all keen to sign the 30-year-old following the arrival of Lacazette from Lyon. But Giroud says the thought of leaving was, in the end, too much to bear.

“To be honest, there was something in my soul and in my heart which told me to stay," said the France international, who watched Danny Welbeck and Lacazette start ahead of him.

“That is why.

"To be honest, I have been hesitating because I am the most happy man when I play and I am on the pitch. I keep the faith and I still believe I can have an important part to play this season in the club.

“I feel good in my head and also physically. So I am 100 per cent focused on the club project."