Arsenal analysis: Calum Chambers showing promising signs for the future
By Kian Long
Calum Chambers is beginning to raise the eyebrows of Arsenal fans in his recent run of games.
In the summer of 2014, Arsenal made a huge statement when they spent £16m on Calum Chambers, who was playing at Southampton. Being a young English defender, he was bound to be under a lot of close scrutiny. There’s no denying he hasn’t quite lived up to the hype he received, but he’s certainly showing promising signs recently.
The Englishman was out-of-favor last season, when the Gunners brought in fellow young defender Rob Holding from Bolton Wanderers. Chambers was sent out on loan to Middlesbrough, while Rob Holdng impressed in his first season, even earning a start in the FA Cup final with Chelsea.
Upon his return to Arsenal, Calum Chambers must have impressed Arsene Wenger in training, as he is now above Rob Holding in the pecking order. Amid significant injuries, there has been a place in Arsenal’s defensive compartment, and Calum Chambers has slotted in beside Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi.
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Although it’s been a hard time for Arsenal recently, Chambers has been one of their most consistent players at the back. He has shown his determination to reach loose balls, and he’s also helped out in the final third. He earned a trip to the San Siro, for Arsenal’s Europa League tie, and he impressed Arsene Wenger. He seen off pressure exceptionally from the likes of Patrick Cutrone and Suso, getting the away clean sheet and helping his side get the edge heading in to the second leg.
There are still, obviously, flaws in his game which need to be improved. At the age of 23, he is beginning to mature, something which the Arsenal faithful have been looking forward to. Consistency will be key for the young defender, he must keep impressing week in, week out.
Arsenal come up against Watford on Sunday, which is the perfect opportunity for Chambers to continue his form, following Arsenal’s defensive disaster in their reverse fixture with the Hornets.
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Do you think Calum Chambers is an exciting player for Arsenal’s future?