Olivier Giroud has spoken of his 'big relief' after scoring in Chelsea’s win over Tottenham.
The Frenchman was handed his first start since November against Jose Mourinho’s side in today's lunchtime kick-off and marked his return with a goal.
After opening the scoring inside the opening 20 minutes, Marcos Alonso then doubled his side’s lead in the opening stages of the second half to hand the Blues a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
It had looked for large parts of January like the former Arsenal man would depart the club, but having stayed put, he is hoping to help his side secure Champions League football.
“I am a team player and I would like to underline the character that we showed today,” Giroud told RMC Sport.
“It was important, we talked a lot and we had to put things right after some not so good performances.
“So it was a very important match for us, and for me too. As you have said, it is nearly 3 months since I started a match.
“It was the 30th November. I was impatiently waiting for this. Already against Manchester United, I felt very good.
“The belief of the coach, I try to repay that on the pitch, help my friends. Of course, the fact that I scored a goal, is a big relief for me.
“There are only 3 months left until the end of the league season. I have to reach the objectives with Chelsea, finish in the top 4, why not in third.
“You should always fix ambitious goals. Personally, mine is to play as many games as possible, to get the playing time required to be ready for the Euros.”
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