QATAR WORLD CUP UNIQUE; FRANCE HAVE A CHANCE: GIROUD
FRANCE international Olivier Giroud believes that holding the World Cup in November and December, during the mid-season of the world’s top league, is unique because players will be in good shape and ready to perform at a higher level.
The 36-year-old, who is playing in his third World Cup, spoke at the team’s first press conference and training at Al Sadd Sports Club on Thursday, ahead of their first match against Australia on Tuesday.
“It’s unique to have a World Cup in the middle of the season, but we are all in the same boat. It’s as if we were continuing in the wake of our domestic leagues, the players are ready, they are in good shape. You have to be vigilant with regard to physical hiccups, the staff of the France team is aware of this.”
“For me it is kind of a blessing to have the opportunity to play for my country at a third World Cup. I want to enjoy every single moment,” Giroud said told reporters.
“I’m already very happy to be here, it’s a great source of pride,” the Frenchman said of his role in the team, given that Real Madrid talisman Karim Benzema is the main striker. “Everything is clear with the coach regarding my role. I’ll try to bring my expertise as soon as I’m needed.”
“Being professional means preparing as if you are going to start the match, being ready at any time to jump in is crucial. The preparation must remain the same. You have to have the energy to bring something extra when you come into play. The more we advance in the competition, the more the bodies will be put to the test the impact of the players who will enter the game will have to be more and more decisive.”
Giroud, who leads Milan’s attack in the Italian Serie A, commented on his form, “My best form I’m not sure, I’ve done latan things in the past, and I enjoy acrobatic goals. I’m in good shape physically, in my game, at my club, and with the France team. It’s a prosperous time for me. It’s a blessing to feel this good at 36.” “I think I am a striker with the qualities of a target man, with a part of my game where I can play like a pivot, make lay-offs to people,” he said of his relationship with Kylian Mbapp . Players have always enjoyed playing alongside my profile throughout my career. It’s something Kylian enjoys, so that’s a plus.”
Speaking on France’s chances in Qatar 2022, he said: “We have a lot of hope but also humility, we do not make ourselves favourites. We know that there are very big teams in this World Cup. I have a lot of confidence in this squad.”
At this year’s World Cup, Giroud hopes to break Thierry Henry’s record and become France’s all-time leading goal scorer.
“Of course, I have the target of beating Titi’ (Henry), but the main goal is to go as far as we can in the competition as a team.”
With 114 caps, the former Arsenal and Chelsea striker is now just two goals away from equalingequalling 199 World Cup winner Henry’s record haul of 51 for Les Bleus.
France will miss Paul Pogba, as well as Kant and Kimpembe, according to Giroud, but the youngsters will step up. “With his personality, Paul has been a significant force in this France
team, but I am confident that other young leaders can emerge. I, too, will play the role of big brother for the youngsters, making myself available to them and speaking up when necessary.”
It’s unique to have a World Cup in the middle of the season, but we are all in the same boat. It’s as if we were continuing in the wake of our domestic leagues, the players are ready, they are in good shape. You have to be vigilant with regard to physical hiccups, the staff of the France team is aware of this.”