Olivier Giroud reckons the two-window transfer ban for Chelsea would be helpful in his bid to remain at the west London club beyond the current season.
Last month, the Stamford Bridge outfit has been handed a transfer ban by FIFA for allegedly breaching rules regarding the signing of young foreign players. Chelsea have lodged an appeal against the transfer embargo with their case to be heard by the FIFA Appeals Committee at a hearing on April 11.
While the possible transfer ban is generally seen as a negative, French forward Giroud considers it as something that would strengthen his chances of remaining at the club beyond his current contract which expires in the summer.
“At the club we still need to wait to see regarding if we will have the opportunity to get some players [in the next transfer windows],” said the France international. “If not the club will be blocked and maybe then they will need me more and to offer me something. I am very happy there, but it all depends on a few things so we will see.”
The World Cup-winning striker has been linked with a return to his native France with Lyon a possible destination yet the 32-year-old played down the rumours, saying he is contented at west London, though he adds it would not be bad if he had spent more minutes on the pitch.
“The French media have made too much of some comments from me trying to push me into a move to Lyon. I am staying objective, and if I can stay at Chelsea I will be happy – but I need to play more.
“For now we have a very big game against Cardiff now at the weekend. There are only eight matches to go, and going for the Champions League places we will be trying to win all of them.”
