Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud will be available to start for France in their opening World Cup game against Australia, according to Didier Deschamps.
The 31-year-old’s place at the World Cup was at risk earlier in the season due to his restricted game time at Arsenal but a January switch to Chelsea boosted his chances.
Deschamps had warned the striker that he could be at risk of missing out on a spot in the squad if he didn’t move on.
Giroud netted three times in 13 Premier League appearances for the west London outfit and subsequently forced his way into Deschamps’ plans.
The striker was given the nod to start the World Cup warm-up game against the Republic of Ireland, netting as France won 2-0, while he also started in the most recent outing against the USA.
However, he was forced off with just less than an hour played after suffering a nasty cut to his forehead following a clash of heads with Chelsea team mate Matt Miazga.
Les Bleus were concerned that Giroud could miss their opening game with Australia on June 16 but Deschamps expects his man to be available.
Deschamps said: “Olivier Giroud has a beautiful cut of six centimetres. But he will be able to face Australia.”
France are priced at 1.25 to win their opening game, while the draw is available at 6.00, and Australia can be backed at 11.00 to pick up a shock victory at the Kazan Arena.
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