Olivier Giroud thanks Arsenal fans for "unconditional support"

Outgoing Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud has thanked the club's fanbase "for their unconditional support" after bringing an end to his five-and-a-half-year spell at the Emirates Stadium.

The France international, who scored 105 goals in 253 games for the Gunners, completed a deadline-day switch to London rivals Chelsea on an 18-month contract.

Giroud was a fan favourite at Arsenal and departs with plenty of well wishes from supporters, despite now plying his trade for a direct Premier League competitor.

Soon after the permanent transfer was confirmed by both clubs, the 31-year-old took to Twitter to say: "I spent five and a half amazing years within the arsenal family.

"This beautiful story ends today. Thank you for your warm welcome. I would like to especially thank the fans for their unconditional support upon my arrival."

In a separate tweet, Giroud added: "I'm delighted and proud to become a Chelsea player. Looking forward to make my debut. Come on the Blues!"

Giroud came off the bench for the final 16 minutes of Arsenal's 3-1 defeat to Swansea on Tuesday night and was present in the stands for Chelsea's league clash against Bournemouth 24 hours later.