Liverpool have been without Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for nearly a year, and they’ve missed him. However, the Englishman could be on his way back. According to the Telegraph, the Reds are hopeful that he’ll be back and available in April.
This is huge news for Liverpool, as he’s fantastic option. However, where exactly would he play?
Liverpool’s midfield, in particular, has improved dramatically in his absence, and so would he still command a starting berth? Well, there’s certainly a worthy gap for him.
Liverpool’s defence is pretty established, and you can’t imagine that there will be many changes at the back for quite some time. Andy Robertson has cemented himself as one of Europe’s best left-backs, and under Jurgen Klopp he’s gone from strength to strength. Likewise, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been sensational since his rise through the ranks at Liverpool. He’s perhaps the most consistent player at Anfield, and at just 20-years-old, that’s a testament to his quality. Centrally, the duo of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez has worked wonders this season, when it’s been available. Gomez has suffered a few injuries as of late, but Liverpool will be hoping that he’s back sooner, rather than later.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would be a natural fit in the heart of the Liverpool midfield, playing as the slightly more advanced number eight, if you will. There, he’ll be able to have an impact going forward whilst also contributing at the back. He’d be able to make use of his fantastic pace and energy, and he’d get into the positions just outside the penalty area that he was so deadly in last season. Naby Keita seems like a good fit alongside him. He’s had a tough first season in England, but there have been signs that he’s improving, and the best is surely yet to come. On his day, he’s a combative, energetic and exciting midfielder that is able to make a real nuisance of himself at either end. Sitting slightly deeper, Fabinho should be able to clean up any messes for Liverpool. The early signs have been very good for Fabinho, and you’d expect him to grow into his role as time passes. This midfield has a great balance of attack and defence.
Liverpool’s attack has been unchanged for a while, and you’d expect it to continue in that sense. Though originally a winger, Oxlade-Chamberlain would be better suited to the midfield – given just how good Sadio Mane and Mo Salah are. Their offensive impact is remarkable, and they shouldn’t be split up under any circumstances. Likewise, Roberto Firmino is, in many ways, the perfect forward. He’s got a great relationship with those around him, and he’s fantastic alongside The Ox in particular.
Oxlade-Chamberlain would command a major role in this team, as he’s exactly what Jurgen Klopp has lacked this term. His creativity is unrivalled, and he’ll be a welcomed return.
Thoughts?
