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Arsenal Must Deduce What Is Holding Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Back
By Josh Sippie
Alexis Sanchez has went from goat to being hailed as the next Arsenal legend in the span of a few weeks. The goals are pouring in and he is stepping up to be a leader in the dressing room. His training, his confidence and his effort are beacons for what Arsenal youngsters can aspire to be.
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One Arsenal man has already indicated that he wants to emulate Alexis. That man is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Now 22 years of age, the Ox is at a point where he has to start delivering from his previous ‘wonderkid’ mantra. Two years ago, the Ox was all the rage. Everyone was excited to see what he could turn into. Now, he still finds his way blocked.
After a rousing start to the campaign with a beautiful goal against Chelsea in the FA Community Shield, the Ox has faded into the shadows of Arsenal’s mass of attacking options. That is not where he belongs. The young Englishman exudes confidence at the microphone. It’s confidence on the pitch that is the problem. Arsene Wenger has even keyed in on this.
“I might need to start showing that I believe in myself a bit more,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said, via the Mirror.
That really is the only thing holding back the massive talent that is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. We have seen him do some amazing things. His goal (ignoring the follow-up) against Monaco was beautiful and seemingly out of the blue. The goal against Chelsea was equally gorgeous and on his weaker foot. Watching the Ox tap the ball around opposing fullbacks and then chase it down is a joy to behold. He has the physicality to out-muscle a good percentage of the league as well.
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In the Ox, Arsenal has a player that could play just about anywhere ahead of the back four. And that is not a stretch. He could even be used up front if he learns to be a better finisher. This kid is talented. With pace, strength, and technical ability that is rarely seen in one person, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could very well become another Alexis Sanchez.
All he needs is confidence. I made mention of all of the amazing things we have seen the Ox do but we have also seen him do some boneheaded/bizarre/questionable things as well. His loose cannon can go wild at times. His first touch can be a bit flustering. His mistakes can be costly. Most of these things can be solved with a boost in confidence and awareness.
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The last thing we need is another player like Olivier Giroud, who is so drastically different depending on the confidence level. Obviously dips in confidence affect everyone but it cannot completely remove you from relevance.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is a few small steps away from stardom. It’s just a matter of getting there. That has to be one of Arsenal’s top priorities. The Ox has to start producing some solid numbers. 9 goals and 10 assists since 2011 is not the best return. Throughout his career he is averaging just 0.8 key passes per game. The numbers show that he is also not cutting down on being dispossessed. We have seen what he can do but the statistics do not back him up. (Statistics via WhoScored).
Whether it is getting him more playing time, getting him more responsibility or just getting him in the right positions, the Ox is a talent that can drive Arsenal for a decade. It is up to Arsene Wenger to really unlock him.
Next: Arsenal's Top 10 Prospects