Olivier Giroud underlined his desire to help the younger players in the Milan squad and highlighted his ‘great respect’ for Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The 35-year-old Frenchman has been a strong forward for the Rossoneri this season, netting eight goals in 22 Serie A appearances, including a number of key strikes against Inter and Napoli. His goals could prove incredibly decisive in the title race this season, allowing the Milanese club to pick up six points purely from these.

Speaking to Eleven Sports Belgium, Giroud first discussed his comfort at the top of the Serie A table.

“Thanks to the fact that we’re first in the table, we have great serenity and confidence. When the results are positive everything is easier. We have to keep this spirit in every match to continue our path in the best way.”

He touched on how he found his footing in Stefano Pioli’s squad.

“I was helped in my adaptation by the French speakers. I’m quite a sociable person, so we socialised well, we have the same way of thinking. My adaptation was helped by all this.”

The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker gave his thoughts on Alexis Saelemaekers.

“He knows what I think of him, all the respect I have for him and the talent that he is. We are a squad with a lot of young talent and there is a good chemistry between the younger players and the more experienced players.

“I’m also here to be a brother the younger players can count on. It’s important to have youngsters who have a good head on their shoulders and who have some maturity at their age, like Saelemaekers for example.

“It’s easier to improve in training with them. And they know where they want to go and they give their best.”

Giroud commented on the similarities between him and Saelemaekers.

“We received the same education. I had the chance to meet Alexis’ parents and they made me think about it.

“We have a lot in common, we have the right head and feet on the ground. We know where we want to go and that we have to give everything.

“Despite the difficulties, the moments of doubt that there may be, the important thing for us is the day-to-day.”

He spoke about what to do in difficult moments.

“There are two reactions to these moments, feeling sorry for yourself or reacting like a winner and overcoming the difficulties. This is a bit of my trademark, these things build character.

“I try to convey this to the others to make them understand that it is important to have the technical qualities, but also the steel mind to face difficult moments.”

The Frenchman commented on the importance of goals in big games.

“A striker is always in the spotlight. They expect you to be decisive in every game. There was a period when I didn’t score and I had less positive marks in the papers. It’s not something I look at much, but they are things that come to our ears anyway.

“It’s part of the game. I’m 35 years old, I’m quite experienced and I know that in these moments you just have to stay focused. The main thing is to be decisive at important moments for the team. We always do our best to reach our goal of becoming champions.”

He gave his thoughts on the Milan squad in general.

“Despite the young age of this squad, there is great maturity. Guys like Ibrahimovic and other experienced players are here to bring serenity and tranquillity.”

Finally, Giroud highlighted his respect for fellow veteran Ibrahimovic.

“He’s incredible. His career, his longevity, his determination to stay at a high level, his desire to do more and more, it’s extraordinary for a 40-year-old player.

“In five years I don’t know if my knees, ankles and back will allow me to score again. So great respect for Ibra.”

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