Back and better than ever – The importance of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
By Ryan Gaskin
When in form, Oxlade-Chamberlain is electrifying and can do a bit of everything. He’s a terrific athlete, passes the ball well, has superb ball retention, and can score goals.
He knows Klopp’s system and can be extremely valuable to it. Jurgen Klopp likes to press high up, and move the ball quickly when in possession; Chamberlain has the speed and stamina to press at a high level and can push the pace extremely well.
Chamberlain has received most of his opportunities in cup competitions this season and has excelled in the Champions League, particularly. In 2 matches, the Ox is making 3 tackles per game and has completed 89% of his passes. He’s performed in the final third as well, chipping in with an assist and 3 goals, including a beauty vs Genk.
Whether it be off the bench, in cup competitions, or when thrust into a starting line up for important games, Oxlade-Chamberlain has a huge role to play for Liverpool if they plan on realizing their dream of a Premier League title. For England, however, the midfielder’s role could potentially be much, much bigger.
England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 proved that they had the talent to win a tournament, but they were still missing something, especially in midfield. Most have cried out for a creative central midfielder, someone who can dictate the pace and pass between the lines. Luka Modric schooled England’s midfield in that semi-final and was the difference-maker.
England seems to have a lack of players that fit this mould, sadly; Harry Winks is the only one I’ve seen that could play that role at a decent level. But while most are still looking for extra creativity, I’d prefer a different route, one built around Oxlade-Chamberlain.