Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud has credited his strong mentality for his recent glowing form.
The French international was heavily criticized for his performance against Monaco in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 late last month but bounced back in style, culminating in a dazzling performance in the 3-0 win over West Ham United on Saturday.
Ahead of Arsenal’s second leg against Monaco on Tuesday, Giroud said: “There are always tough moments like that because we do a hard job. If you let the doubts enter your head it’s even more difficult to cope.
“You have to question yourself every week and bounce back. I try to show my answer on the pitch with my mentality. It was nice to do it against West Ham.
“I try to bounce back as quick as I can and it’s true the boss gave me a chance to do it against Everton last week. I try to do it straight away. Football is a sport where you need to have a strong mentality because you have to face some difficulties. It’s like life.
“Even when you play well and score a lot of goals, if you miss some game everything is forgotten. You have to have a conscience about it and be aware. Don’t believe the people who talk too much about football.
“I’m not used to reading the media. I know when I play well or not. I know how to bounce back. I used to say that football is an everlasting new beginning. You have to be aware of that and do it.”
A similar scoreline to the Hammers’ win of 3-0 will see Arsenal progress to the next round of Champions League following their disappointing 3-1 home defeat to Monaco in the initial bout.