Lampard Intent On Keeping Unhappy Giroud At Chelsea
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has expressed eagerness at keeping unhappy French striker Olivier Giroud at the club despite his lack of playing time.
Giroud has made just three Premier League appearances this season as Tammy Abraham continues to lead the line for Chelsea.
The 33-year-old former Montpellier striker was again on the bench at the weekend as Chelsea won 1-0 against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.
Despite Giroud’s lack of first team opportunities at club level, he has maintained his place in France manager Didier Deschamps’ plans and scored twice in as many games for Les Blues during the recent international break.
Giroud has voiced his frustrations over his lack of game time for Chelsea and his national team manager has implored Lampard to give the world cup winner more minutes.
Lampard has sided with Giroud and has urged him to remain calm as he is still an important part of Chelsea’s plans.
"I had a good chat with Oli before he went away and I always respect all the players, but particularly the players of that age of low thirties," Lampard said.
"I love his professionalism. He was bang on when he spoke to me, and also with his quotes when away with France. He shouldn't be happy and accept not playing. That's what good players do. I think, as I said to Oli, he will get his games and be a big influence for us.
"At the moment, because of how Tammy is playing, there hasn't been the minutes, so I would happily sit down with Oli in January. But that is a long way away. I want him here."
