Wenger reckons the Ox is England’s next Steven Gerrard…
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has lavished praise on fit again Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, claiming the youngster could one day fill Steven Gerrard’s role in the England side, the Mirror reports.
The 20-year-old has been out injured for practically the entire season, after he was hauled off during the opening game of term with a knee problem.
Despite this, Wenger reckons his young star can eventually emulate the England skipper Steven Gerrard – in a central midfield role.
“He scored that goal against Brazil and had a big impact in that game, especially in central midfield. His future will be there in central midfield, in a deeper role, because he has a good long ball and penetration from deep,” Wenger said.
“He has good quality to distribute and penetrate individually – very similar to Steven Gerrard.”
The comments will come as a surprise to many, who have noted Oxlade-Chamberlain for his pace and trickery down the wing.
The ultra talented young Englishman has won 13 caps for his country already as a result, although his French boss believes he’s cultured enough to eventually succeed in a more central role.
“At the moment he is still in development. It is good for his education to play on the left, right or centrally, but after the age of 23 or 24 he will settle into a position. He will be an Aaron Ramsey type,” Wenger added.
To date, Oxlade-Chamberlain has made 60 appearances for Arsenal, scoring six goals, since moving from Southampton back in 2011.
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