Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is talented. From the high octane runs, to the inch perfect passes, to the ferociously struck shots, “The Ox” possess a skill set envied by many. However while his potential is clearly evident, a certain issue has sprung up over his years at Arsenal. What exactly is his best position? With his limitless potential, and a maturity level miles beyond that of the average 20 year old, Chamberlain is able to play virtually anywhere in the midfield. He can use his pace and dribbling to play on either flank, his creativity and skill to play as a 10, or his energy and composure to play as a central midfielder.
Ox’s versatility is a massive asset to both Arsenal and England, however figuring out what his best position is will be a very difficult endeavor.
The most obvious solution would be to play Chamberlain on the wing. His pace and trickery allows him to stay wide and attack the fullback, while his creativity enables him to cut inside and act as a second playmaker. He possesses all the traits necessary to be a top class wide man, and is very acclimated with the position. Whether it be on the left or on the right, Chamberlain thrives in a wide role, and looks likely to continue there for the time being. Additionally, Arsenal appear to have simply too many options in the middle of the pitch. The signing of Mesut Özil effectively ended any chance of Chamberlain becoming a long term 10, while Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey currently look the most likely candidates to take over as Arsenal’s long term central midfielders. On paper, everything sets up perfectly for Chamberlain to continue playing out wide as a winger.
Arsene Wenger however, seems to have other idea’s for the English youngster. In a recent interview, Wenger likened Chamberlain to Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, and revealed that he would like his long term position to be as a central midfielder. And given his recent performances in that role, who’s to think Wenger isn’t correct? From his two goal masterclass against Crystal Palace to his workmanlike display against Tottenham, Chamberlain has displayed his ability to excel in a more central role. His pace, strength and vision prove to be very useful in the middle of the pitch, enabling him to work the box to box role to perfection. While unorthodox, Chamberlain has impressed many with his all around midfield performances, and at the age of 20, could get even better in such a role. While playing The Ox out wide is a safer decision, moving him to the central midfield position could pay limitless dividends in years to come.
Overall, it seems a bit too early to predict where Chamberlain will end up. While the most likely scenario appears to be the left wing, there is plenty of reason to believe he could end up in a central role. Nevertheless, Chamberlain is a brilliant prospect who will thrive wherever his future lies. Very few players his age posses such a well rounded arsenal and high maturity level, and he appears to be improving at an astounding rate. The future is bright for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, regardless of where he ends up on the pitch.
