Giroud gets chance to spearhead France’s attack

Agency :
Karim Benzema’s injury has opened the door for veteran striker Olivier Giroud to spearhead France’s attack at the World Cup in Qatar.
Benzema entered the tournament as arguably the world’s most complete forward while Giroud was a likely substitute in the France team. Last month, the Real Madrid star Benzema won the Ballon d’Or. Then his World Cup ended when he tore a thigh muscle in training on Saturday.
With Benzema out of the tournament, Giroud is expected to move from the bench to a starting role against Australia today in the Group D game. He has extra motivation to do well, since he is just two goals shy of Thierry Henry’s France record of 51 goals.
 “For me it’s a gift to play in this World Cup, I’m treating it like a young player appearing in his first World Cup. It would be a bonus to beat Titi’s (Henry’s) record,” Giroud said. “I’m very happy to be part of this adventure. It’s a great source of pride.”
The 36-year-old striker has looked sharp with AC Milan this season and his hunger is evident.
“I feel in good shape,” he said. “I’m not setting myself any limits. My determination to stay at the highest level remains the same.”
It’s another swing in fortunes between Giroud and Benzema, and this time the pendulum has moved in Giroud’s favor.
Because last year, it was Benzema’s unexpected recall that saw him take Giroud’s long-standing starting place at the European Championship – where Benzema led Les Bleus with four goals.