Dimitri Payet

Deschamps believes Giroud boos were unfair in Cameroon win

Published May. 31, 2016 6:38 a.m. ET

foxsports

Didier Deschamps boss believes it was unfair for France fans to boo striker Olivier Giroud during their 3-2 win over Cameroon on Monday night.

The Arsenal striker scored the Euro 2016 hosts' second goal in Nantes, but was jeered by the home supporters as he led the line.

"You hear what you want. The whistles were unfair tonight, but in Biarritz, he was applauded. People can be conditioned," Deschamps said.

"But Olivier scored again. When you say it, you are not helpful. You are free to say what you want but this is not necessarily the truth."

Deschamps also reserved praise for midfielder Dimitri Payet, who scored his second free-kick in as many France games to secure a last-minute win.

"It's been three weeks since he played," said Deschamps. "This game was good for him, to get back into the pace. He can do better, but every time he touches the ball, there is something happening. And he has the quality of set-pieces, free-kicks, corners and it is something important.

"He is very important."

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