‘How being a Dad has changed me'

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

The French forward is a man transformed and he says that being so happy off the field helps him when he is on it too.

“My family and my friends are so important for me, so this is my balance today outside of football,” Giroud told Arsenal Player. “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."

Life as a high-profile footballer comes with certain pressures and Giroud admits that can be tough for those around him.

“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,” he said. "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."