Didier Deschamps has admitted that he might not start Olivier Giroud against Sweden as the striker isn’t 100% fit.

The 30-year-old recently returned from weeks on the sidelines due to a toe injury and despite getting a decent amount of game time (although not enough, according to the big guy), and receiving a call-up for France, Deschamps doesn’t think he’s fit enough and may not start him on Friday.

Speaking to the press ahead of France’s World Cup Qualifier against Sweden, Deschamps said, Ask me if he will start, it’s simpler. It is not 100%, I know he knows it too. I also know what it can do and what Kevin (Gameiro) can bring. It fits in my thinking. I have an option early in the game and another during the game.”

I can’t help but feel this proves Arsene Wenger right. Giroud has been complaining about not starting but now his national team manager is saying that he’s not 100% fit yet and therefore may not start.

Perhaps he’ll listen and give it time before jumping the gun so publicly.

On another note, hopefully Giroud is fit and ready for Arsenal’s trip to Manchester United on 19 November. We need as much fire power as we can get.