Giroud never intended to leave 'top club in England' Chelsea

The France international striker was linked with a summer switch away from Stamford Bridge, but he insists he never considered heading elsewhere

Olivier Giroud says he is “where I wanted to be”, with the striker having given no thought to a summer move away from Stamford Bridge.

The international was linked with a move elsewhere before and after a successful World Cup campaign with his country.

Just a few months after completing a January switch to west London, a return to his homeland was mooted for the 32-year-old frontman.

Marseille, who have been long-standing admirers of the former Arsenal star , were among those reported to be keen on doing a deal.

Giroud, though, claims that he never considered walking away from Chelsea as he sees them as “the top club in ”.

He told L’Equipe on the transfer talk which has followed him around: “It did not go as far as was claimed.

“There was contact [from ] last year, but nothing really concrete this summer.

“I had just arrived at Chelsea, it was not the time to pack my bags again three months later.

“For me, Chelsea is the top club in England, the one that has won the most titles over the last 10 years. I am where I wanted to be. So why leave?”

While ruling out a departure from Chelsea, Giroud also maintains that he has no intention of calling time on his international career .

He has earned 84 caps to date, netting 32 goals, and has vowed to remain in contention for future call-ups for as long as Les Bleus feel that he can do a job.

Giroud added on his future with France: "It would have been too easy to leave [after the World Cup].

“I feel that I still have something to offer to the team. So, if the coach feels the same, I will be available.

“I know how much I will miss football after my career to start putting barriers up now. I want to enjoy every moment.”