Football

Frank Lampard explains Olivier Giroud absence against Leicester


Frank Lampard left Olivier Giroud out of his Chelsea squad for the trip to Leicester (Picture: Getty)

Frank Lampard insists Olivier Giroud’s absence against Leicester had nothing to do with his failure to complete a deadline day move to Tottenham.

The veteran France international has largely been out of favour this season with Tammy Abraham staking a convincing claim to be regarded as Chelsea’s No.1 striker.

Giroud hasn’t featured for the Blues since the end of November and had become concerned that a lack of playing time would cost him a place in France’s Euro 2020 squad this summer.

The former Arsenal man was linked with the likes of Spurs, Newcastle, Inter and Lazio throughout January, but will remain in west London after Lampard was unable to secure a suitable replacement.

Giroud was not included in Chelsea’s squad which travelled to the King Power on Saturday, despite doubts over Abraham’s fitness, as the visitors earned a 2-2 draw but Lampard insists the 33-year-old remains part of his plans.

‘It was nothing to do with the frame of mind, no,’ said the Chelsea manager. ‘But he has had a few days where a lot of scrutiny has been on him and around him.

‘I think it is was case of travelling without him. We will all go away for a week away from each other, it’s probably what’s needed for everyone.

‘We will come back and work hard and Olivier is here. Play if he shows himself in training, because that is how I pick the team generally, then he will get his opportunities.’

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