There was a real moment of worry for AC Milan in the first half of France’s game against Ireland last night as Olivier Giroud hobbled off with an ankle issue.
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This morning’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (via PianetaMilan) recalls how in the 26th minute of the first half, Giroud left the field with a sprained left ankle, which instantly provoked fears that he might be out for a while and would miss the derby.
However, he was subbed off immediately and at the end of the game he reassured reporters: “There was a lot of pain, but now it’s already better and I hope to be there for the derby on Saturday evening.”
The moment where he decided he couldn’t continue was after a duel in the penalty area with John Egan, captain of Ireland. He was trying to latch onto a ball into the box and though he wasn’t fouled, it knocked him out of his stride and he pulled up immediately.
Giroud also immediately took off his boot with a displeased expression. He preferred to leave immediately to avoid more serious problems, especially in view of the game on Saturday 16 September.
Giroud left with his head down, covering his eyes with his shirt, going straight to the dressing room, from where he returned with a bag of ice on his ankle.
