Olivier Giroud has given Frank Lampard a big decision to make at Chelsea following his winning goal against Rennes.
That's according to former Blues midfielder Joe Cole.
The France international, who has recently been tipped to leave Chelsea in the upcoming January transfer window in the search of regular game time, climbed off the bench to make a massive impact against the Ligue 1 side.
Reacting quickest to Timo Werner's effort that was saved, Giroud powered a header into the back of the net and sealed the Blues' place in the Champions League knockout stages in the process.
Currently behind Tammy Abraham and Werner in the pecking order to lead the line for Chelsea, Giroud's reminder has presented Lampard with somewhat of a dilemma.
"It’s a big test for Frank now. For Giroud, it’s special for him to play for France - he’s a World Cup winner - and he’ll know he needs to play," Cole said on BT Sport.
"Frank knows what a great lad he is, and what a great servant he’s been for the club and how much he produces when he’s called upon
"It’s going to be one of those situations come January; do you let him go for the lad’s sake, or do what’s right for the club?
"It’s difficult for Frank, because Giroud is such a good professional, but more importantly, such an effective player for the club.
"I’d love to see him stay because that won’t be the last time he bails Chelsea out.
"He’s brilliant off the bench and he’s one of the most underrated players we’ve seen in recent years in the Premier League."
Meanwhile, Peter Crouch thinks Giroud doesn't get enough respect, naming him one of France's greatest players alongside the likes of Thierry Henry and Michel Platini.
"What an option to have on the bench," Crouch said. "He was the top scorer in the Europa League. Off the bench, he’s fantastic to have.
"I think there's been a serious lack of respect for Olivier Giroud in the past since he’s been in the Premier League, and for France as well.
"He's often overlooked, but he’s one of the greatest players France have had - goal scoring-wise - he’s seven behind Thierry Henry, ahead of Platini.
"I think it’s time we stood up and lauded what a fantastic servant he’s been."
