Ian Wright slams Oliver Giroud on passing up a golden opportunity against Watford
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day (h/t Express), Arsenal legend Ian Wright has clammed Oliver Giroud for failing to make the most of a tempting cross against Watford.
The moment under discussion came when Mason Mount, playing in a deeper role, drilled in a cross at the near post in the second half.
Giroud did not attack the ball and instead gestured to his teammate that the ball should have been pulled back to him instead.
The Frenchman’s gesture did not go down well with Wright, who was a striker himself during his playing days. He believes the 32-year-old would have done well to attack the cross.
“Giroud’s saying he should have played it out here. No, you’ve got to go into that near post area.”
The criticism seems a little unfair given Giroud had an excellent game and also made it to the scoresheet. Attacking the cross is something Wright may have done but not necessarily something Giroud must do.
We rather our strikers play to their strengths and what they think is best than adjust to what suits others. Wright was, however, full of praise for Mount, who he believes is back to his best.
The former Gunner did not hold back his admiration for our young midfielder. Given the affinity, it is understandable that he felt Giroud did not do justice to that cross.
“He was getting the ball and being very productive with his movement and his passing.”
The 20-year-old was the Man of the Match as Chelsea got back to winning ways after the shock loss to West Ham United. The win took us back to fourth spot, two points ahead of Manchester United.
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The Blues have won all but one of their games since the restart. The win against Watford showcased that the team can recover from jarring defeats and react positively.