Liverpool fan favourite Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain featured in Wednesday’s starting lineup against Atletico Madrid and fans definitely weren’t happy when Jurgen Klopp substituted him for James Milner in the second half.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been a yo-yo starter for Liverpool lately but Klopp opted for him to play alongside fellow England international Jordan Henderson in midfield against Atletico.
The 26-year-old has won fans over after some standout performances and moments of significance whilst at the club, including his rocket strike against Manchester City in last season’s Champions League. Indeed, Chamberlain’s performance on Wednesday was another solid display.
Liverpool’s No.15 bagged himself an assist after he set up Georginio Wijnaldum’s header on the cusp of half-time. Chamberlain also registered two shots on target, two key passes and completed 100% of his attempted dribbles (via Sofascore).
Fans were baffled and some furious when Klopp chose to take Chamberlain off the pitch when Liverpool were still searching for a second goal. In fact, Chamberlain has the highest Champions League performance rating out of Wednesday’s starting midfield three, including averaging the highest amount of shots per game (via WhoScored).
One supporter has said the Ox ‘should’ve never been taken off’ while another said the decision to substitute him was ‘absolutely terrible’.
https://twitter.com/ftblbenjamin/status/1237884206572654592?s=20
Imagine my shock when he got subbed and our intensity dropped
— MOLO (@_shameless_man) March 11, 2020
Why on earth are we taking off the best player on the pitch?
— Keziah Greensill (@Keziahgreensill) March 11, 2020
Disgusting sub
— aaron (@aaron21935914) March 11, 2020
Why take off our most dangerous player smh
— Firmindios (@1futbolFanatico) March 11, 2020
Absolutely terrible substitution…
— Jack (@Jack53111353) March 11, 2020
How do you think the Ox played last night, Reds? Describe his performance in one word!
