Lampard keen to keep Giroud at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea players players Giroud and Zouma [Getty]

Frank Lampard wants Giroud to stay at Chelsea despite the Frenchman's lack of playing time.

Frank Lampard is has revealed that he is eager for Olivier Giroud to stay at Chelsea and that the French striker is an “important” part of the Blues.

Former Arsenal star Giroud isn’t happy with the situation he finds himself in as he continues to struggle for game time at Stamford Bridge.

The 34-year-old reckons his chances of playing for France in the 2020 European Championship could be affected by his lack of playing consistent football.

But, Blues boss Lampard insists Giroud will be vital for his side going forward this season.

“I do have plans for Oli, he is very important in our squad,” he said.

“He was very important last year, he played a lot of games and made a lot of starts. He’ll always want to play more but he’s a huge member of the squad for me.

“I know he will be important for us going forward, so I want Oli to be here and to stay.

“I have a very good relationship with Oli and if ever he felt that it was going to go a different way then I would happily have that conversation with him.

“But I want him to stay here. I’m open both ways if that ever changes but at the moment he is very important for us.”

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