Giroud starts, Walcott on the bench again: Montpellier v Arsenal Team News

(Sporting Alert) — As expected, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has opted to start Olivier Giroud on his return to Montpellier for tonight’s Champions League clash Group B at Stade de la Mosson.

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The forward is still looking to make an impact with the Gunners since his summer move, but Wenger believes playing is old club could help him hit form.

Giroud will start with Lukas Podolski in the forward line.

Meanwhile, midfielder Abou Diaby is also in the starting line-up, after overcoming a hip problem, but there was still no place for winger Theo Walcott.

Mikel Arteta and Gervinho both start as well, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is also amongst the substitutes.

Hosts Montpellier will be without forward Emmanuel Herrera, who misses out because of an injury.

LINE-UPS – Montpellier v Arsenal

Montpellier: Jourdren, Bocaly, Yanga M’Biwa, Hilton, Bedimo, Estrada, Saihi, Mounier, Belhanda, Cabella, Camara. Subs: Pionnier, Marveaux, Herrera, Congre, Ait-Fana, Stambouli, Jeunechamp.

Arsenal: Mannone, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs, Diaby, Arteta, Gervinho, Cazorla, Podolski, Giroud. Subs: Shea, Koscielny, Andre Santos, Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ramsey, Coquelin.

Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain)