'We will discuss my situation' – Giroud keen to commit to France future in Deschamps meeting
Olivier Giroud has felt uncomfortable looking in from the outside at France squads, and he is eager to stay part of Didier Deschamps' plans.
Olivier Giroud has revealed he and Didier Deschamps are set for talks about the striker's future with France.
A return to favour for Giroud this week came about after Real Madrid's Karim Benzema pulled out of the squad for friendlies against Ivory Coast and South Africa due to injury.
Veteran striker Giroud has impressed with Milan this season, but the 35-year-old's efforts had not been enough to initially persuade coach Deschamps he should be part of the current group. This late call-up shows the Qatar 2022 World Cup later this year may not be out of reach for Giroud.
With 11 goals, the former Chelsea and Arsenal frontman is the joint-leading scorer across all competitions for Serie A leaders Milan.
His last appearance for France was as a substitute in the 3-3 draw with Switzerland at Euro 2020 last June, which was followed by defeat on penalties and a dispiriting last-16 exit for the pre-tournament favourites. Subsequent exclusion from Deschamps' squads mean there has been plenty to chew over.
"It was not easy, but I digested it and I think it was seen in my performance with AC Milan," Giroud told French newspaper 'Le Parisien'. "It is planned that we will discuss my situation with the coach during the get-together."
Giroud said the call from Deschamps on Saturday to confirm he would be called in "brought me a lot of joy". He sits just five goals behind Thierry Henry in France's all-time scoring charts after netting 46 times in 110 games, and the chance to add to each tally has arisen.
France host Ivory Coast in Marseille on Friday, before tackling South Africa in Lille next Tuesday.