Mauricio Pochettino 'hates' Giroud over Arsenal and Chelsea links
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Mauricio Pochettino has explained he always ‘hated’ Olivier Giroud in the past due to his ability in front of goal. The 50-year-old spent five years in charge of Tottenham with the Frenchman a constant thorn in his side during his spells for London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea .
Giroud has been in fantastic form during the World Cup, scoring three times for France with his strike in the round-of-16 clash against Poland breaking Thierry Henry’s record for most goals scored for the national team. He also had an excellent overhead kick ruled out after referee Jesus Valenzuela blew up for a head injury while he was in full flight.
To many, Giroud has failed to gain the praise he deserves over the course of his career given his unflashy style of play. However, this is not the case for Pochettino who gave him a huge back-handed compliment by saying he ‘hated’ coming up against him as a manager.
“Always I hate Giroud in the past because of Arsenal and Chelsea,” he told BBC as he analysed France’s 3-1 win over Poland. “He was a player you face and you know was capable of everything. It’s massive. It’s a player, we as centre-backs hated because he’s a killer, inside the box it’s difficult because he’s big, clever - so smart.”
READ MORE: Spain boss Luis Enrique gets apology from TV host after manipulation
