Former Chelsea winger Joe Cole believes that at Frank Lampard has a big decision to make over Olivier Giroud.
Following Giroud’s heroics in Chelsea’s win over Rennes last night, the pundit stated that the Frenchman has given his coach something to think about.
The big striker who has been tipped to leave Chelsea in January came on as a second-half substitute to score his team’s winning goal, reacting quickest to head home Timo Werner’s parried effort.
His goal was enough to secure a win for Frank Lampard’s side, qualifying them for the knockout round of the Champions League after just four games.
Following his impact off the bench, Joe Cole who was on punditry duty with BT Sport was full of praise for the striker stating that he had put his coach in a difficult situation.
“It’s a big test for Frank now,” he said.
For Giroud, it’s special for him to play for France – he’s a World Cup winner – and he’ll know he needs to play.”
“Frank knows what a great lad he is, and what a great servant he’s been for the club and how much he produces when he’s called upon
“It’s going to be one of those situations come January; do you let him go for the lad’s sake, or do what’s right for the club?”
“It’s difficult for Frank, because Giroud is such a good professional, but more importantly, such an effective player for the club.
“I’d love to see him stay because that won’t be the last time he bails Chelsea out.”
“He’s brilliant off the bench and he’s one of the most underrated players we’ve seen in recent years in the Premier League.”
Fellow BT Sport colleague Peter Crouch echoed Joe Cole’s sentiment, going as far as claiming that Giroud was one of the greatest players France have had.
“What an option to have on the bench,” Crouch said.
“He was the top scorer in the Europa League. Off the bench, he’s fantastic to have.”
