Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has described Olivier Giroud as a "very important player" for the Gunners after his recent return to form.

Giroud came in for criticism from the club's supporters towards the end of last season, but four goals in his last five appearances has led to calls for the Frenchman to return to the team.

Cech has backed his teammate to continue to make an impact in the penalty area and feels that he can make a difference to his team's quest to win the Premier League.

The 34-year-old told SFR Sport: "Sometimes, I think people don't realise Olivier's qualities, because he works for the team.

"He's useful when he starts games, but he's also useful coming off the bench. He can make the difference. He's a very important player for us."

Giroud could start when Arsenal host Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday night.