Peter Crouch hails Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud as a ‘class act’

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Peter Crouch has given a glowing verdict on the quality of Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud, claiming that he’s been massively underrated for years.

The Blues forward recently had a week to remember, scoring five goals in two games across all competitions to seemingly win back his starting position in the side.

He’s been stuck behind Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham in the pecking order so far this season, but it looks like he’s forced the hand of manager Frank Lampard with his recent performances.

The 34-year-old put on an attacking masterclass with four goals against Sevilla in the Champions League group stages, plus he netted an equaliser at the weekend in the 3-1 Premier League win over Leeds United.

The France international is desperate for enough game time to ensure his spot at next summer’s European Championships with his country and he’s going to be undroppable from the Chelsea XI if his form continues.

Pundit and ex-Premier League striker Crouch is blown away by the overall ability that Giroud possesses.

“As for Giroud, he has been dreadfully underrated for years. He is a class act and always has been. You are talking about someone who is second in the all-time goals list for France and when you consider the strikers they have had, what does that say?” Crouch told the Daily Mail.

“He’s been outstanding for Chelsea and always chips in with crucial goals. His touch is outstanding and his awareness is brilliant.

“Of course we get excited about players such as Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech, but Giroud has a huge part to play for Chelsea. He’s a man in form.”

Giroud is a left-footed striker that is brilliant at holding the ball up and bringing teammates into play, but he’s shown a ruthlessness with his finishing of late and his movement in the box really stands out.

The £110,000-a-week star (Spotrac) has seven goals in just 11 games across all competitions last season and his great form at the back end of the last campaign helped secure a top four finish in the league.