Chelsea striker Giroud: "I was supposed to leave in the January transfer window."

Giroud (L) joined Chelsea from Arsenal in 2018. [Getty]

Giroud extended his contract with the Blues until the end of next season.

France international Olivier Giroud says he "nearly" left Chelsea during the winter transfer window.

Forward Giroud was linked with a move to several clubs in Europe including Serie A sides Inter and Lazio, but the Frenchman decided he will continue plying his trade with the Blues.

The ex-Arsenal frontman was edging closer to the exit doors at Stamford Bridge before head coach Frank Lampard convinced him to stay at the west London club.

"I was supposed to leave in the January transfer window because I wasn't playing much and I needed more game time to make the France squad for Euro 2020," the 33-year-old told chelseafc.com.

"I very nearly left the club but I really think that God wanted me to stay at Chelsea.

More: Chelsea manager Frank Lampard is keen on adding top talent to his squad.

"The manager told me that he couldn't let me leave because he didn't have anyone to replace me. Everyone knows what happened so I won't go back over it but the coach spoke to me privately and told me that he'd give more games.

"He kept his word and what then mattered to me was proving to him that he could count on me when I was called upon."

The Les Bleus striker added: "I want to keep winning trophies and I want to continue to show the manager that he can count on me.

"Plus, with the whole coronavirus lockdown situation, I didn't really feel comfortable with the idea of moving abroad and uprooting my family. I think a lot about our quality of life and we have a great setup here. I think a lot about my family now."

Giroud joined Chelsea from Arsenal in 2018 and has won the Europa League and FA Cup with the Blues.

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