Deschamps concerned about Lampard playing Giroud too much

France head coach Didier Deschamps has again warned Frank Lampard about Olivier Giroud’s playing time. But this time, the France manager urged his Chelsea counterpart not to play the striker too much.

The two have repeatedly been at loggerheads over Giroud’s game time, while Lampard has also been frustrated by Deschamps’ use of N’Golo Kante through the midfielder’s injury troubles.

Giroud, 34, has enjoyed a Chelsea renaissance of late, however, banging five goals in their last two games.

And while Deschamps is pleased at the reversal in his target man’s fortunes, he revealed that playing too much would not be ‘ideal’ either.

“We often talk about Olivier, he is often criticised. A lot of the things said about him are unfair and he has this strength of character,” the 52year old said.

“When we call on him he scores and when he doesn’t score he is still useful.

“It’s a much happier time for him. Good for him, it was not the case when he came in selection.

“What other people say, everyone is free to think what they want. Just look at the number of goals he has scored.

“I’m happy for him and I’m hoping it can last. If Lampard decides to have him play three days a week, that’s not ideal either.

“The happy medium is good, that he takes advantage of this ideal period for him. He is one of the very best attackers at international level.”

Giroud has been one of the best scoring strikers in European club competitions since last season with 16 goals and is also 8 goals away from being France’s all time top scorer.

Source – The Sun Football