Arsenal legend Ian Wright has defended striker Olivier Giroud following his below-par performance in the 1-1 draw with Tottenham.

Wright believes it is unfair to put the entire blame of the Gunners' shortcomings against their North London rivals on the Frenchman.

"Olivier Giroud has taken so much stick it's a wonder he isn't black and blue," Wright told The Sun.

"His critics were at it again on Sunday after he missed a couple of great chances in Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Tottenham.

"Forget all that talk of this being the Gunners' best chance in years of winning the title, they said, with Giroud leading the line they haven't got a prayer.

"Yes, the Frenchman didn't have his finest hour against Spurs. But to put all the blame at his door is unfair and wrong.

"If Arsenal do see their title hopes go up in smoke again this season, it won't be down to the fact that Giroud is up front.

"Any more than it will be down to the fact Theo Walcott or Danny Welbeck are there."