Former Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra believes Olivier Giroud is the "best striker" currently on Chelsea's books.
Evra, who played alongside Giroud at international level for France, made the admission ahead of the Blues' Premier League clash with Leeds United at Stamford Bridge this evening.
Giroud, who has been heavily linked with an exit from the west London outfit ahead of the January transfer window, has been handed his first Premier League start of the season following his stunning four-goal haul against Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.
The France international has started up front at the expense of Tammy Abraham, who has been a regular starter for the Blues in the league in recent weeks.
Giroud's inclusion in the starting line-up, though, has come as no surprise to Evra, who lavished the his fellow countryman with praise ahead of kick-off, insisting he is the "best striker" Frank Lampard currently has in his armoury.
“I think Giroud’s only problem is his name. If his name was Giroudinho then people would like him," Evra told Sky Sports.
"But for me, he’s the most complete striker that Chelsea have and I don’t understand why, because even in the French national team, you can see it.
"His four goals against Sevilla... he’s a goalscorer, even when he was at Arsenal.
"He’s always facing criticism, but he relishes the challenge. That’s what I love about Olivier.
"As a manager, he would definitely play in my team - 100 per cent. I don’t have one question about that, but every season we’re going to hear about a Giroud transfer saga.
"He’s the best striker that Chelsea have right now.”
Since joining Chelsea in January 2018, Giroud, excluding tonight's meeting with Leeds, has scored 34 goals in 98 appearances for the Blues.
