Olivier Giroud has stated that he is motivated by incessant rumours linking a host of strikers to Arsenal.

Arsenal seemingly get linked with numerous strikers almost every transfer window and the likes of Gonzalo Higuain, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Edinson Cavani were just some of the names touted to join the Gunners in January.

Current striker Giroud is well aware of the constant speculation but rather than worrying for his place in the side due to the potential arrival of a new front man, the Frenchman has revealed that he uses the speculation to motivate himself to do better.

Speaking with the Arsenal Magazine, Giroud said: "Obviously it helps to motivate you because when you are in your comfort zone, I think you maybe don't give your best.

"So it helps sometimes to have speculation like that, to prove that you deserve your place in the team.

"It's part of the job. In every single transfer period, there is some other striker's name coming out as a possible new signing.

"You have to deal with that and keep focused on the team and to help the team try to win every single game. You have to give your best and that's what I tried to do. I'm pleased with my first half of the season so far."