Sagna - We have more diversity this year

Bacary Sagna believes Arsenal’s attacking “diversity” makes them a stronger all-round unit this season.

Last season, the Gunners were reliant on Robin van Persie’s goals but this term Theo Walcott, Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski have all hit double figures.

Sagna insists it is a healthier situation and has helped the team build up a strong bond.

 “We relied on Robin a lot last year,” he told Arsenal Player. “He was in top form, he used to score in every game and he was our main striker.

“Now we have some diversity. Everyone can score and everyone can be dangerous. It’s good for the team.

“I think everyone’s settled well. It feels like they’ve always been here and they can score great goals at any time. Everyone is getting more confident.

“We have a lot of fun [together] and everyone tries to speak English, which is really important. If you want to get stronger as a team, you have to communicate well. Everyone’s trying to speak better and better.”

Sagna has been impressed with the speed of Giroud’s adaptation to the Premier League, and says he offers a fresh option up front.

“He’s totally different,” he said. “Physically he’s very strong and he has a different style. We used to play with Robin, who was skilful, and previously with Adebayor, who was tall but skinny. Giroud is a totally different striker and we can use him differently.”