AC Milan make ‘Giroud 9’ goalkeeper shirts available to buy after French striker’s heroic cameo between the sticks against Genoa – and quickly sell out

The France international striker was forced to don the gloves for Milan in the closing stages of their latest Serie A fixture. Established No.1 Mike Maignan collected a late red card, and the Rossoneri had already used up all of their substitutes.

USMNT star Christian Pulisic – who netted the only goal of the game – offered to take over in goal, but he was considered to be “too short”. As a result, World Cup winner Giroud took on shot-stopper responsibilities, and pulled off one brave save to preserve a clean sheet and wrap up three priceless points.

In honour of that performance, the Rossoneri have said: “Olivier Giroud became part of Milan history by courageously defending the AC Milan goal in the final minutes of the Rossoneri's match against Genoa. The club has decided to honour his performance in its last line of defence by putting him in the list of goalkeepers. Additionally, fans can now purchase the goalkeeper jersey and customize it with 'Giroud 9.'”

Giroud said of displaying unexpected versatility for Milan: “The final stop? I made a great save at the end. Almost a goal. [Davide] Calabria massacred my arm but it's okay. I am going to frame this shirt!” The initial batch of ‘Giroud 9’ keeper jerseys quickly sold out, with more custom offerings on the way at San Siro.