Wenger praises Gunner Giroud’s heading prowess after West Brom winner

Known for his love of the beautiful game – emphasis on the beautiful – Arsene Wenger was full of praise for his countryman after Olivier Giroud’s looping header sealed Arsenal’s Boxing Day victory over West Brom.

The Frenchman has made a habit of scoring from the bench this season, but the 30-year-old started on Monday as the Gunners looked to be heading for a goalless draw against Tony Pulis’ high-flying Baggies, until he guided Mesut Ozil’s pin-point cross past Ben Foster.

And Wenger once again highlighted his side’s resilience as they chase a first Premier League title since the invincible season of 2004-05.

“I like these kind of goals because it’s heading technique, it’s not just heading it with strength, it’s just doing the right movement. Olivier did well, congratulations to him,” said Wenger.

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“It could have been a 0-0 and sometimes you have to accept that.

“But I believe we were relentless, we were composed, we didn’t rush our game, we didn’t panic and we didn’t make a mistake at the back.

“For us it was mentally vital to win the game and that’s why I believe it was a big relief. Because you could see that mentally we are not used to losing games.

“It could have become a block a little bit, so it was good to get that out of the way.”