Olivier Giroud approaches 40, Lille forward still shining before Nice test | OneFootball

Olivier Giroud is set for his final outing before turning 40 on 30 September, with Lille visiting Nice on Sunday at 17:15 in Ligue 1 matchday five.

L'Équipe notes that despite Ayase Ueda’s late-window arrival possibly nudging him to the bench, Giroud has one goal and two assists this season and continues to train like a youngster, first to arrive and last to leave.

Before the 2-0 win at Angers on 23 August, he urged team-mates to enjoy their football and suggested this could be his final year, his voice cracking as many in the dressing room felt the emotion.

After a year back in France, he is applauded wherever he goes, with photo requests piling up. When academy players stepped up to the first team recently, he was the first to applaud and congratulate them, a gesture that resonated with the youngsters.

Coach Davide Ancelotti praises his elite one-touch finishing and accuracy, as well as his demanding, exemplary standards that drive sessions even when he does not start. Ueda is said to value Giroud’s help settling in, including translating staff messages into English. Ancelotti believes they can play together or alternate, while Gaëtan Perrin says the striker’s longevity makes others want to follow his example, which was precisely why LOSC signed him last year at nearly 39.

Source: L'Équipe

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