Home » Teams » Chelsea » This PL-proven Frenchman is capable of solving Crystal Palace’s goalscoring woes – Agreed?

This PL-proven Frenchman is capable of solving Crystal Palace’s goalscoring woes – Agreed?

Why Olivier Giroud would be a smart signing for Crystal Palace

According to a report from The Sun, Crystal Palace are interested in signing Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud in January.

The Frenchman, 33, has managed to make just one start and three substitute appearances in the Premier League for the Blues so far this season.

He finds himself well down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, with Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi firmly established as Chelsea’s first choice centre-forwards under Frank Lampard.

With his contract expiring next summer and the European Championships looming large, the time feels right for a fresh start.

Hence, Crystal Palace must offer the veteran striker an escape route in the winter.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring against Southampton. (Getty Images)
Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring against Southampton. (Getty Images)

The Eagles need a quality centre-forward since Christian Benteke is no longer a regular starter at the club, having endured injury problems and poor form over the last 18 months or so.

Jordan Ayew has surprised with his performances this season but his consistency is questionable. Palace have been over-reliant on Wilfried Zaha and Luka Milivojevic for goals over the last two seasons but in reality, they have not lived up to the expectations this season.

This has seen Roy Hodgson’s side struggling for goals. Thus, signing a new striker in January is an absolute must and Hodgson should bring in Giroud.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring against Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup. (Getty Images)
Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud celebrates after scoring against Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup. (Getty Images)

Giroud may be 33 but he can still do a brilliant job in the Premier League. He is a proven goalscorer and is one of the very best in Europe when playing with his back to the goal.

More Crystal Palace News

With the Eagles having some quick players in Zaha and Townsend down the flanks, a target-man like Giroud would provide Hodgson’s attack with a massive threat in the box.

Verdict

With plenty of Premier League experience and proven goal-scoring acumen, Giroud could turn out to be a shrewd piece of business for Hodgson and Palace.