Arsene Wenger is sure striker Olivier Giroud will be a success at Arsenal, despite a slow start to his career in the Premier League.
After Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla opened their accounts in the 2-0 win at Liverpool on Sunday, Giroud remains the only one of Arsenal's big-name summer signings still to score.
The 25-year-old did have chances at Anfield but he lacked the composure of his team-mates and already some are starting to question whether the ?9.6million signing from Montpellier can have the impact Wenger demands.
The Gunners chief believes it is far too early to make negative judgements.
And Wenger claimed his battle with Martin Skrtel will prove to be a valuable part of an important learning process.
"I am confident about him," said Wenger.
"Giroud is in an adaptation period. He has shown he is ready for a fight and I am sure he will adapt to the intensity of an English striker.
"Against Skrtel he discovered what the Premier League is all about."
Wenger is on much safer ground considering the merits of Abou Diaby.
The 26-year-old's qualities have never been questioned.
Far more of an issue are the numerous injury problems he has encountered.
Diaby was restricted to just four Premier League appearances last term, all as a substitute.
However, in the wake of Alex Song's departure, Diaby is more important than ever to the Arsenal cause.
His superb performance at Liverpool was reminiscent of Patrick Vieira in his pomp.
Now Wenger just needs the France midfielder to stay healthy.
"If he is fit and healthy, Diaby has the talent," said Wenger.
"You can see he is massive for us because he has everything you would want in a midfielder.
"I stood behind him because I know he is not only a fantastic player but a fantastic guy as well.
"He hasn't played for a year but now he looks in good shape.
"There is more to come but let's touch wood and hope it goes well in the next two or three weeks because he is going away with the national team.
"He will travel a lot and play two games in four days."
Source: team talk
Source: team talk