Olivier Giroud: Chelsea extend striker's contract

Chelsea have taken up an option to extend Olivier Giroud's contract, keeping the France striker at Stamford Bridge until the end of the 2020-21 season.

Having been out of favour for much of the season, Giroud was close to leaving Chelsea in the January transfer window, but remained at the club with Frank Lampard unable to find a replacement forward.

An injury to Tammy Abraham then allowed the Frenchman a run in the first team, during which he put in a series of impressive performances before the season was halted by the coronavirus pandemic.

"I am delighted to continue my journey and adventure at Chelsea," Giroud told the club's website.

Giroud will remain at Chelsea but the future of team-mate Willian remains unclear

"I can't wait to get back to playing and enjoying competitive football with my team-mates. I'm looking forward to wearing the Chelsea shirt again, especially in front of our fans at a full Stamford Bridge, whenever it is safe to do so."

Giroud was one of several senior Chelsea players whose contracts was set to expire this summer. Earlier on Wednesday goalkeeper Willy Caballero's deal was also extended by a year, but the futures of wingers Willian and Pedro remain unclear.

The 33-year-old spent five-and-a-half seasons at Arsenal before joining Chelsea in January 2018, and has gone on to score 21 goals in 76 appearances for the west London club.

Giroud has played a key role for France during his time at Chelsea

Despite having failed to hold down a regular starting role at Stamford Bridge, Giroud has flourished for the French national team, playing a key role as Didier Deschamps side won the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

"Since I have been back at Chelsea, Olivier has been brilliant as a professional and as a man in general," Lampard said.

"He has great qualities to help the squad both on and off the pitch, not only with his talent but with the example he sets every day and the experience he brings to our young squad. I am very pleased that will continue next season."