It’s Time For The Ox To Step Up For Arsenal! by AT
When Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain first burst onto the scene in 2011, he was considered by many as a world-beater who was on the verge of becoming one of the biggest names in English football. At just 18 years of age, he seemed like he was almost ready to set Europe alight with his dynamism. I can fondly remember brilliant performances against Blackburn Rovers, Manchester United and AC Milan which made him a household name.
But four years since the Englishman first burst onto the scene for Arsenal, it would be fair to say that he hasn’t really lived up to his potential, at least not yet. A bunch of injury problems and mediocre performances have seen Joel Campbell step ahead of him in the pecking order for wingers. But looking back at the former Southampton youngster’s promising start at the Emirates, it’s really difficult to see where it went wrong for him.
In all fairness to the winger, he’s had more than his fair share of injury problems which have undoubtedly hindered his development. But apart from that, his performances haven’t really helped his cause either. Despite being blessed with lightning pace and a physique to brush off most Premier League defenders, Chamberlain continues to struggle with his final ball and seems to have lost his eye for goal.
But at just 22 years of age, he has a lot of time to set things right and I really hope he does so. Considering Arsenal’s luck with injuries, he will surely get his chance. In my opinion, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has absolutely everything to make it to the top and I believe he can draw inspiration from the rise of Joel Campbell in his quest to return to the player Arsenal fans know he can be. Imagine how much a fully revitalised ‘Ox’ can contribute to Arsenal’s title push this season.
Anurag