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Frank Lampard insists Olivier Giroud has part to play in his Chelsea plans after netting winner at Rennes as he claims he is 'getting better with age' amid links to January move away

Frank Lampard insists evergreen striker Olivier Giroud still has a vital role to play at Chelsea.

Blues boss Lampard hailed Rennes match-winner Giroud's importance at Stamford Bridge, despite the 34-year-old already being linked with a January transfer.

The 44-goal France hitman is determined to reach next summer's European Championships as Les Bleus' top striker and could seek a move away from Chelsea for more regular game time.

Chelsea forwardu00a0Olivier Giroud came off the bench to score the winner at Rennes on Tuesday

Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud came off the bench to score the winner at Rennes on Tuesday

Manager Franku00a0Lampard hailed Rennes match-winner Giroud's importance at Stamford Bridge

Manager Frank Lampard hailed Rennes match-winner Giroud's importance at Stamford Bridge

Giroud's powerful header snatched the Blues a 2-1 Champions League win at Rennes, securing safe passage to the last 16 with two matches in Group E still to play.