Arsenal: Calum Chambers’ North London career has been saved

Arsenal have always had high hopes for Calum Chambers, ever since he first arrived, but after several dips, his career has been saved without him even being present.

When Arsenal signed Rob Holding and loaned out Calum Chambers, it seemed highly probable that the latter would pursue a career elsewhere. Then, when Shkodran Mustafi came to town, it seemed unavoidable.

The only thing we could ask from Chamber was patience. Until Laurent Koscielny moved on, there just wasn’t enough room in that back two. Gabriel Paulista, Shkodran Mustafi, Rob Holding and Koscielny were all higher in the pecking order for two positions.

Being fifth in line for two positions is hardly where a young man such as Chambers wants to be.

But with the introduction of the 3-4-3, Chambers’ North London career has been plucked from the grave. With three center back positions now, which emphasizes how much talent the Gunners have at center back, Chambers may have his way home paved in gold. Being fifth in line for three positions is hardly unattainable and even with Nacho Monreal added to the mix, Chambers still figures to have plenty of opportunities.

Which is fantastic, because the young Englishman has had all kinds of success on now-relegated Middlesbrough and their surprisingly stout defense.

While there was talk that he would stay with Boro, the fact that they are going to be relegated eliminated all worry there. Chambers now has no other recourse other than to return home. Another loan would seem foolish as well, particularly given that Arsenal will start next season with four competitions to compete in and the need for rotation would warrant six center backs for the three positions.

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No need to go out and spend bookoo bucks on a new centerback when a proven one is right in your midst, more dedicated than ever.

Chambers had himself a strong end of the year before being loaned out. I will never forget him stonewalling both Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez in one-on-one situations after having to fill in for an injured Koscielny.

The improvements could already be seen in plain sight. This year at Boro has simply reinforced it. He has been their best defender by far, playing predominantly at center back but also dabbling at right back.

Playing the right sided center back, then would be ideal for Chambers, who has an average amount of mobility, a decent attacking streak and solid defensive and aerial presence.

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Just as Rob Holding has stolen the show for the defense this year, Chambers can do the same next year. Then, before you know it, we may be looking at a heavily-British core propelling Arsenal after all.