Ex-Spurs keeper Robinson: It was a real miss not getting Giroud in January

Paul Robinson has claimed Tottenham “missed a trick” not signing gamechange Olivier Giroud in January given the injuries that have followed.

The former White Hart Lane goalkeeper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, suggested the 32-year-old would suit Jose Mourinho’s system “perfectly”.

Giroud told French television network Telefoot Chelsea ‘blocked’ him from making the move to Spurs.

Mourinho’s side is currently playing without a recognised number nine after Son Heung-min joined Harry Kane on the sidelines. The Korean fracturing his arm against Aston Villa last month.

When asked if the Lilywhites would be regretting not signing the France international, Robinson told Football Insider: “They tried to get a number nine in the January window.

“With Harry Kane’s injury, closely followed by Son’s injury and now Bergwijn they have not got anyone who is comfortable playing that position.

“To not get a striker in January has proven… It was very important.

“I think it was a real miss not getting Giroud in January. He has got game time and Chelsea and played a lot better. He would suit Mourinho perfectly – occupy the centre-backs and give space for those behind him.

“It is a difficult sell for Spurs, getting a top striker to play while Kane is out. I really think they missed a trick not signing somebody.”

Giroud has started five games since the winter window closed, scoring twice.

His performances have helped Frank Lampard’s side regain control of fourth-spot and qualify for the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.