Liverpool: Why Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is vital for the Reds
The beloved midfielder is a key cog in Jurgen Klopp’s machine and his presence in the lineup makes a world of difference for the club. Liverpool has been lacking the force that he provides all season and it could be the difference in the Premier League title race.
He is not an average midfielder, as he began his career as a traditional winger for the North London side of Arsenal. He always had promise, but never quite met the high demands of his potential. Klopp recognized his talent and sought him out – to develop into his system, a role which was a far better fit for the youngster.
In the end, he developed into a particularly solid midfield option that can provide an offensive threat and a degree of energy at the centre of the park. In the middle of the Liverpool formation, he can burst into action and provide a supplementary force to the front line of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah.
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There is no player that can claim to have this specific skill set, among the entire Reds squad. They possess a number of highly talented midfielders that perform their roles well, but cannot possibly provide what Ox does.
After the brutal injury he suffered against Roma in the Champions League semi-final last season, Klopp has been forced into playing the likes of Xherdan Shaqiri and an erratic Naby Keita in that role this season. The pair have not been up to the task, as Xherdan Shaqiri is often playing out of his natural winger position and Keita lacks consistency.
A steady producer such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could have created a more balanced Liverpool squad, where the lack of depth would not be as exposed. Shaqiri could be focused in an attacking role and there would still be a dynamic presence in the midfield as Naby Keita develops.
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One would be remiss in mentioning the fact that Ox can unfurl blistering shots as well, as he famously did in the Liverpool, Manchester City Champions League match last season. His blast put Klopp’s men in control and they never surrendered it. Therefore, the importance of Oxlade-Chamberlain should not be forgotten as he nears his return.