Chelsea could put Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to good use
On the surface, it doesn’t look as if Antonio Conte needs to add much more talent at Chelsea. Closer examination, however, shows that wantaway Arsenal star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could provide the Blues with a major boost.
Reports from England claim that Chelsea are eyeing Oxlade-Chamberlain and Everton star Ross Barkley in an effort to add English talent to the squad. The interest in Barkley seems designed to tap up the cost Tottenham need to pay, but moving for Oxlade-Chamberlain would make a lot of sense.
Arsene Wenger’s apathy for the talented winger is rather mystifying. Athletically, he has every quality necessary to be a standout Premier League player. He’s got pace and power in spades. The only thing really holding him back from becoming a star with the Gunners is his inconsistency in the final third.
You might be asking yourself why that wouldn’t be an issue at Stamford Bridge. The solution is startlingly simple. Conte wouldn’t be purchasing Oxlade-Chamberlain to be an offensive superstar. Instead, look for the Juventus boss to talk the Arsenal star into switching positions.
Instead of thinking about Oxlade-Chamberlain as an attacking midfielder, think of him as a wide back for the Blues. Conte would still give him the freedom to make attacking forays up the pitch, but he wouldn’t be counted on to shoulder an offensive load. His strength and pace would make him an ideal wide defender for Chelsea.
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Some might question whether or not Oxlade-Chamberlain has the defensive talent necessary to serve as a wingback, but I believe he has the physical tools to make the transition. Remember that he’d also be supported by three quality centre backs at all times. That lessens the defensive responsibilities heaped onto fullbacks in Conte’s system.
The real question is whether or not Oxlade-Chamberlain is willing to sacrifice his offensive game for the Chelsea collective. If he his, a move to Stamford Bridge might give him the chance to revitalize his career. Playing for one of the best managers in football and the club most likely to win the Premier League title has a way of benefitting players.
If, on the other hand, he’s determined to think of himself as an attacking player, he’ll need to look for a different sort of move. He doesn’t have the consistency to impact Chelsea in that department. The likes of Eden Hazard are certainly a cut above him.
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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is facing a tough decision about what club he’ll entrust his football future too. Don’t be surprised if he takes a big gamble on changing things up with Chelsea.