Ballack hails Giroud after netting a brace against Iceland

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack says Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud is becoming his favourite player at Euro 2016.

Giroud was named man of the match after scoring twice in France’s 5-2 victory over Iceland in the quarter-finals, a victory which sets up a clash with Germany in the final four.

And former Germany captain Ballack has heaped praise on the 29-year-old, who has been much maligned by Arsenal supporters throughout his three years in north London.

“Maybe he doesn’t get a lot of praise sometimes because he is not that fast. But Giroud really knows how to play upfront on and off the ball and we saw that today [against Iceland],” he said

“He is becoming my favourite player in the tournament so far because he plays in a way that always helps the team.”

Giroud may have impressed this summer but Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is still being linked with a move for a new striker, with reports on Monday suggesting the Gunners have made an enquiry for Napoli hitman Gonzalo Higuain .