Olivier Giroud seemed set for a Chelsea exit a month ago but now is an integral part of their XI… they need him to win silverware

Olivier Giroud’s recent rejuvenation proves just how important the Frenchman is for Chelsea in their quest for silverware this season. 

The 34-year-old has started Chelsea’s last two league games. Despite not scoring in their 1-0 loss away to Everton on Saturday, he scored a crucial goal in his first Premier League start in their 3-1 win over Leeds United. 

His recent upturn in form appears to become a recurring theme, the same happening last season after Tammy Abraham was ruled out with an ankle injury in February. 

Giroud went on to score eight goals in just 12 league games, helping Chelsea cement a Champions League place. 

The 2018 World Cup winner’s stunning performance against Sevilla a fortnight ago, where he scored four goals, has forced himself into Frank Lampard’s staring XI ahead of a busy Christmas schedule. 

Less than a month ago, the Frenchman was angling for a move away from Stamford Bridge in the quest for more game time before the delayed 2020 European Championships. 

France manager Didier Deschamps recently voiced his concerns with Giroud’s situation, saying ‘I’m hoping it can last. If Lampard decided to play him three times a week, that’s not ideal either. A happy medium is good.’

Giroud will be hoping to continue this recent purple patch and secure a place in the France XI this summer, in what could possibly be his last major international tournament. 

His ever-impressive link-up play is sure to benefit Chelsea’s summer signings of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech. Also, his superb aerial ability provides a perfect outlet for full-backs Reece James and Ben Chilwell. 

This increased game-time for Giroud means he’s likely to stay at Chelsea until the end of the season. 

He has been linked with a move away to Inter Milan who have ex-Chelsea manager, and long-time admirer of Giroud, Antonio Conte in charge. The Italian side were keen to acquire him last season but the Blues triggered a contract extension. 

Chelsea, who currently sit fifth in the league and have recently been drawn a tough last-16 Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid, need Giroud to stay until the end of the season if they want to seriously compete for silverware.

By Jon Bazley