Oliver Giroud ruled out of Champions League group stage ties

French international Olivier Giroud is unlikely to feature for Arsenal in their remaining Champions League group stage encounters having been left out of original squad list.

Giroud injured his ankle during the Gunners' 2-2 Premier League draw at Everton in August.

Having been expected to be out for the rest of the year, it is understood that Gunners boss Arsene Wenger opted to leave out the Frenchman of the club's 25-man 'A List' to feature in the Champions League group stages.

However, the former Montpellier star made a comeback ahead of schedule and recently featured in the club's 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Manchester United.

Giroud will be able to ply his trade in the Champions League only if the Gunners qualify for the knock-out stages.