Deschamps: Giroud was unlucky against Serbia

Didier Deschamps was quick to leap to the defence of Olivier Giroud following a difficult night for the France striker.

Olivier Giroud was unfortunate not to score against Serbia, France coach Didier Deschamps has said despite the striker being booed off.

The Euro 2016 hosts claimed a 2-1 win in Bordeaux on Monday thanks to a double from Blaise Matuidi, though it was a difficult night for Arsenal forward Giroud, who saw three chances to get his name on the scoresheet go begging.

He was later withdrawn to jeers from the fans at the Stade Atlantique in the 62nd minute, but Deschamps insists the 28-year-old had a sound game.

"He also helped during the game," he told reporters.

"He got unlucky on a few chances because the goalkeeper made a great save and he got three clear opportunities.

"One was not on target, a header close from the goal-frame. Obviously if he had been more efficient the score would have been much higher.

"In his role he made a lot of effort. I always leave a lot of freedom to the three attacking players so he also had to counterbalance.