Griezmann hopes to improve

Moscow – France are waiting for star striker Antoine Griezmann to hit his stride as they aim to secure top spot in Group C against Denmark today.

Griezmann signed an extension with Atletico Madrid through to 2023 last week despite interest from Barcelona, but the 27-yearold has yet to find his best form in Russia.

While he scored from the penalty spot in an opening 2-1 win over Australia, his sluggish start to the World Cup mirrors his early travails at Euro 2016 where he finished as top scorer.

“I think he will get stronger, I hope he does. That was the case at the Euros. I’m not worried about him,” said Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud.

Griezmann scored six goals as France finished runners-up to Portugal at the European Championship, clicking into gear as the competition progressed and netting five times in the knockout stages. He also helped Atletico claim a third Europa League title

“He has had a long, gruelling season,” added Giroud. “When you have a bit less in your legs, it’s harder to be at ease on the pitch, but he’s still very important for us.”

Griezmann admitted there is room for improvement: “I’m going to get better and I’m sure the level everyone expects is going to come quickly,” he told French TV TF1.

France are already qualified and would clinch first place with a draw in Moscow, a result that would also send Denmark through as runners-up irrespective of Australia’s result against Peru. –