Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud has jumped to the defence of France teammate Antoine Griezmann.

Griezmann is underfire after a sluggish start to the season with Barcelona.

"It is clear that Antoine did not choose the easiest path when he signed with a huge club like Barcelona," Giroud told RMC Sport.

"That was a huge step forward, can't anyone deny that? I can understand that very well. But it is also logical that there are adjustment problems, especially if you are going to play together with a great person like Lionel Messi and you are in about the same position on the field.

"It may take a little longer than usual, but I am sure he will succeed there.

"I'm not worried about Antoine, because he has enough qualities. However, it is important to discover the magic formula. It is a huge challenge, but Antoine can handle it all. He is the future of Barcelona, because Messi won't be around forever."