France coach Didier Deschamps insists he never demanded Olivier Giroud leave Chelsea next month.

The veteran striker has been outstanding for Chelsea in recent weeks with it now expected he will remain with the Londoners for the season.

Asked about Giroud's situation, Deschamps stated: "I never warned him as we have said. I am not here to advise. I just gave him my opinion. After that, it will be his decision.

"Olivier knew his playing time was limited at one point. He turned the situation around again. The situation has changed.

"How it might change in February or March (he smiles). But that he starts all three matches of the week, it may not be ideal either! Today, I do not ask myself the question in relation to everything he does, even if I cannot give him a guarantee, nor to any other for that matter. In quality and quantity, I am lucky to have a lot of players available."