Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that Olivier Giroud faced a late fitness test prior to the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.

However, the Frenchman lasted only 22 minutes on the pitch before he has sacrificed by Wenger for Gabriel Paulista following the red card to Per Mertesacker for hauling down Diego Costa.

When asked if Giroud was fit before the game, Wenger said: "I think yes, but it was a bit in my mind if he gets injured, with his ankle, he was a doubt, he didn't practice yesterday and today we declared him fit.

"It was on my mind. But I had to change a player and I thought that was the most rational decision with all the factors."

Costa scored the only goal of the contest in the 23rd minute as Chelsea completed a winning double over their London rivals who dropped from top spot.