Thomas Tuchel was totally complimentary of Olivier Giroud during his latest Chelsea press conference by admitting he deserved to play in every game.
Understandably, much of the focus was around the Blues experienced forward following his heroics against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.
Giroud’s age defying bicycle kick secured a huge Champions League victory over the La Liga leaders for Chelsea.
Tuchel was asked if this sublime strike was enough to guarantee him starting role for the weekend’s Premier League fixture versus Manchester United.
“He deserves a start all the time,” Tuchel responded.
“He trains very well and he’s a leader in the group. He’s a big personality.
“Even when he didn’t start, he deserved to start.”
The 34-year-old has only started ten of his 22 appearances in 2020/21.
Despite this, Giroud is already on 11 goals, just one behind top scorer Tammy Abraham.
He continues to prove his doubters wrong, whilst putting pressure on the Chelsea board to make a decision over his future.
Their pursuit over Erling Haaland hots up day by day, which won’t be encouraging news to strikers currently situated at Stamford Bridge.
According to the Athletic, Giroud has not yet ruled extending his contract another year.
Abraham on the other hand doesn’t want to enter into these discussions whilst the Haaland saga continues.
The Chelsea Chronicle View
If it was possible, I’d start Olivier Giroud in every match, in every competition, in every season.
I really adore the man and it will be extremely sad to see him eventually wave goodbye to Chelsea.
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