Arsenal striker Giroud praises impact of fatherhood

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has revealed how becoming a father three years ago has changed his outlook on life.

The 29-year-old Frenchman was sent off in midweek playing against PSG in the Champions League after picking up two yellow cards.

That means he will miss the home match against FC Basel in a fortnight’s time, but despite the sending off Giroud insists he is a more mature man after wife Jennifer welcomed daughter Jade into the world in 2013.

“My family and my friends are so important for me, so this is my balance today outside of football,” Giroud said. “If I feel well in my life, I will be maybe more efficient on the pitch.

“Now I’m a dad it has helped me to grow up and be more mature. This is an important part of my personality and I’m someone who is maybe sensitive and I need the support of my family.

“I think if you ask them, they will tell you that I’m still the same guy but with a lot of [motivation to make] them proud of me when I step on the pitch.

“I’m a family man and I like to enjoy life like every single person, but most important for myself is to take care of your family and your friends.

“When I lose a game, I am very angry and it’s not easy for my family when I get back home – but I try to get back to my best level and make things change in a good way. Obviously when you come back home and you see your children, you get the smile back.

“I didn’t forget where I came from, I can be more positive regarding the world around us. There are a lot of problems in the world and since I’m a dad I’ve always wanted to help children.”