Gunners winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who signed with Arsenal via Southampton in August 2011, has admitted that his rapid rise to first team football at the Emirates Stadium has caught him by surprise.
“The Ox” has bagged four goals and two assists in 21 games in all competitions for Arsenal this season, including two goals and one assist in 11 English Premier League appearances.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been on fantastic form for the Gunners in 2011-12, fueling speculation that he should be named to England’s Euro 2012 squad.
That being said, the England U-21 international is not losing perspective after his speedy rise to the top of English football.
“Coming from Southampton to play at the Emirates is certainly a big change,” said the 18-year-old starlet.
“I would not say I expected to be where I am now, but I have always wanted to be here and have always worked to get to this – but I also know I have to work even harder now, to keep improving myself and make sure I stay here.
“I have always wanted to become a footballer, and going back to the Disney XD Aim High scheme, I believe you always have to aim high in life. You have to set high objectives and keep working to get there.”
At Southampton, The Ox was room-mates with fellow Arsenal winger Theo Walcott and Spurs winger Gareth Bale.
Imagine if Southampton held onto their prized assets. Would they finish in the top half of the Premier League table? I’d bet top dollar on it. Unfortunately, that bet is not currently being offered by the bookmakers.
Somewhat coincidentally, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s rapid rise to stardom could take away from Theo Walcott’s playing time next season.
Personally, I feel that Oxlade-Chamberlain is a better player than Theo Walcott. He’s got more skill, technical ability and he’s a much better crosser of the ball.
Nonetheless, the Gunners will probably be better off with both of them in the matchday squad, giving Wenger the ability to start one and bring one off the bench in the second half.
Arsenal have Japanese starlet Ryo Miyaichi on the books as well. Miyaichi is currently on loan at Bolton, netting one goal and two assists for Wanderers in 10 appearances in all competitions.
With a bevy of wingers currently under contract at Arsenal, competition for the starting XI spots will be fierce in 2012-13.
That being said, will Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain win a spot in the Gunners starting XI next season?
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