World Cup fans demand BBC pundit is removed and hit out at decision | Football | Sport
Fans called for ex-France star Olivier Giroud to be removed from the BBC’s World Cup coverage. The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker has not impressed viewers during the early stages of the tournament.
The 39-year-old, who remains under contract with Lille, joins a pundit squad that also includes Micah Richards, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thomas Frank and Lucas Leiva for the nation’s broadcaster. Giroud is still warming into the role as he provides analysis in his second language, but the early verdict has not been good.
The 2018 World Cup winner faced a raft of criticism following his efforts in Belgium’s draw with Egypt on Monday.
“We’ve got to get rid of Giroud as a pundit, I can’t keep doing this,” noted one viewer. “Olivier Giroud is struggling on BBC,” added a second.
“Whoever it was at the BBC that thought that Olivier Giroud could be a pundit has made a disastrous decision. He’s absolutely abysmal,” offered another.
“Giroud doing his best to put everyone to sleep with his incisive analysis,” said a further viewer.
Another agreed: “The BBC really need to make sure they don’t have Olivier Giroud on as a pundit on the late and overnight games if they want people to be able to stay awake and watch the matches.”
Some fans spotted a crucial error with Giroud’s analysis, too. “Olivier Giroud has just said Belgium can bring on Lois Openda second half. Lois Openda wasn’t selected by Belgium for the #WorldCup,” one fan pointed out.
“I guarantee that I will never learn anything from Olivier Giroud’s analysis. Punditry just isn’t for you mate.” another added.
Some had kinder words for the former Premier League star, believing he offers good analysis if not the attributes expected of a modern pundit.
“Olivier Giroud was a great player, as a pundit he’s giving actually good analysis but he’s got a bit of a monotone voice. Maybe nerves?” one fan suggested.
“Giroud is a fantastic, fantastic pundit, sorry he doesn’t fit the modern, gag-every-30-second model,” said another in his defence.
“Love big Olivier Giroud btw. Bit of personality on the punditry is great,” added one fan.
Fans accused them of interrupting live matches to encourage more fans to renew their TV licences. During Brazil’s clash with Morocco, a QR code was shown to viewers encouraging them to purchase or renew their licences.
The code flashed on screen as the players returned to the pitch in the second half. Commentator Guy Mowbray told viewers aloud: “A handy reminder that to enjoy the World Cup, you need a TV licence. If yours needs renewing, you can scan the code that’s on your screen now to do so.”
