Wednesday’s edition of L’Equipe has an article on the future of Olivier Giroud.
The French striker was in goalscoring form over the international break, but his situation at Chelsea continues to provide concern for Didier Deschamps.
With Euro 2020 appearing on the horizon, Giroud is being continually made aware that a lack of minutes with Chelsea could see his France spot under question.
Deschamps is a big fan but has made it known repeatedly that he feels the striker would benefit from more minutes and therefore needs to consider his situation.
Frank Lampard preferring others is a battle Giroud needs to face, and if it’s one he feels he can’t win than a move as soon as January could be on the cards.
L’Equipe quote him as saying: “I’m going to fight for my place in Chelsea, the coach knows it. We will do the accounts in January. I do not necessarily want to leave but I can’t be satisfied with what I have. Even without the Euros, I am 33 years old, have legs, a healthy lifestyle and many more years ahead of me. I have a profile that can allow me to play a few years football. I feel good physically. I want to have fun and play more games. The priority for now is to stay in Chelsea. If I’m forced to make a choice, I’ll do it.”
That makes it very clear that Giroud himself will consider a move in the winter market should Lampard continue to overlook him.
Deschamps also gave a nudge to his player, whilst making sure to express the confidence he has in the Chelsea striker: “Even if he plays less in his club, he scored decisive goals. That’s why I take him and trust him. He’s an important offensive asset. There is so much unfair criticism of Olivier.
“They don’t like his profile, but he scores, he makes others play, opens spaces. He has lived in blue. He is under pressure but he knows that I trust him. I do not need to warn him. He suffers the situation with a coach who does not play him. I hope he will have more playing time. Before January, anyway, he can’t move.”
At the same time as all of this, repeat claims are coming from Italy of Inter Milan interest.
