Arsene Wenger lauds Olivier Giroud "character"

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has praised Olivier Giroud after the Frenchman marked his return to action with a brace in the 4-1 win over Sunderland.

Giroud was omitted from the squad for last weekend's 2-1 FA Cup win over Liverpool, along with Wednesday's defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League amid speculation surrounding his private life.

However, the France international returned to first-team duties for the visit of the Black Cats this afternoon, firing the Gunners' opening two goals en route to a comfortable victory.

"I have always said Giroud is a strong character and he showed that today," Wenger told reporters.

Tomas Rosicky and Laurent Koscielny added further goals for the North London outfit before Emanuele Giaccherini bagged a consolation for Gus Poyet's men.