Alex Oxlade-Chameberlain believes Arsenal’s current squad is the strongest he’s been part of since he signed from Southampton.
The midfielder moved to the Emirates as a raw 17-year-old prospect in August 2011 and promptly watched Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri clear out their lockers at London Colney.
Having also seen the likes of Robin van Persie, Andrei Arshavin, Alex Song and Thomas Vermaelen quit North London, the England international is well versed in the Gunners high-turnover of big names but believes a turning point has been reached.
“Last year we won the FA Cup, and that’s a step forward,” Chamberlain told Sport Magazine.
“We’d like to be higher up the league, but that’s something we will get better at – and the rest of the season is a good place to start.
“It’s going to be a tough uphill climb – there’s no hiding from the fact that Chelsea have a good lead on us and a few others. But I think we have the best squad of players since I’ve been at the club.”
Reflecting on his four years at Arsenal, the Ox also touched on how his game has developed. “I’ve moved forward, there’s no doubt about that,” he continued.
“I’ve learned a lot and I’ve grown physically. I think I’m a different athlete. Obviously I was only 17 years old when I first joined, and I’m 21 now. So, in that sense, I’ve matured.
“I think I still am [fearless on the ball],” he added. “But it does depend on the situation of the game. As you get older, you do learn more about the right times to run with the ball and show your fearlessness. It’s about picking the right moments.”
Chamberlain also had warm words of praise for this season’s main man, Alexis Sanchez, claiming the Chile international’s work rate has been an inspiration for the whole squad.
“Obviously Sanchez’s goals speak for themselves. But his work rate on and off the pitch – we’ve learned a lot from that as a group. It has a knock-on effect, and it brings the best out of you.
“He’s a really good guy. If he could speak fluent English or if I could speak fluent Spanish, I’m sure we’d get on like an absolute house on fire. But we do alright as it is. There is a language barrier. But he’s such a good guy and so expressive, and he doesn’t mind giving it a go, so you almost get his character.
“He’s similar to Santi Cazorla in that way. When Santi first came he was really happy, smiley. He wanted to get involved and he wasn’t shy to try and speak English, and you really do appreciate that.”
I’m pretty sure Ox is secretly in love with Alexis. I know I am.
I think we all are to be fair.
Yeah, and I guess it’s not really a secret anymore either.
I’m secretly in love with the Ox.
I love this fucking team
He is only 21, if he improves at all (and he will) he will be awesome at 25. Great pedigree and talent.
The only substantial thing missing from his game is end product. Once he starts producing in that way he will be monstrous.
If he can work on his finishing and look after his body well. He could well truly become our Ronaldo.
You mean our Alexis? ATM he’s on another league to Penaldo
the old school Ronaldo I’m assuming you mean?
Can’t see the ox coming out with a range of ninja turtle undies to be honest.
As young as he is, what impresses me most is his interviews where he shows mental maturity.
I’v noticed his mindset of a winner is starting to develop and pray it turns more into one that is similar to The Invincables.
Forever COYG!!!
Wilshire would be well advised to get some of the Ox attitude….. Show some maturity. The Ox has come on in leaps and bounds this season, fabulous, great commitment and great attitude. and obvious development. I love our Ox!
Man… I love this whole fricken team!
I love Alexis. My favourite player since Henry. Long may he stay.
I think The Ox is one of the most admirable young English players in the modern game. Always willing to learn from the best and showing great character. No doubt he will grow up to be a top, top player. If you compare him with Theo when he was 21, there is a marked difference in attitude. Love Chambo.
Chambo seems a bit like Eden Hazard to me but there’s just something missing. Can’t quite put my finger on it, but i hope he continues to improve and becomes the beast of a player that we all want him to be
It’s evident Alexis’s arrival has been an inspiration for the Ox in particular in terms of his game. He takes on more defenders now and seems much more confident.
Ox has commented before on how it’s inspirational to see Alexis’ work ethic & how he pushes himself. It really seems he’s taken that to heart. Ox’s efforts on the field have dramatically increased this season (I am attributing this to Alexis’ influence), but I do think he doesn’t yet have the endurance to keep up intensity for a full 90. He seems to drop off around 60 if he’s started the match and seems to get subbed around that point. If he keeps on working, and gets the endurance elevated… good days ahead.
Ox on one wing and Alexis on the other = bad 90 minutes for opposition wing-backs, as has been proved in parts this season.
If Theo can develop into the striker that we all have been longing for him to be, a trident of him, Alexis, and Chambo is as fast as you can get.
With Welbeck or Akpom too.. Quickest forward line in the world, hands down!
quick line, but one that as a whole needs a lot of work on finishing. hopefully they all get there, the results would be astonishing.
I love you Gunners I really do. Please battery this spuds on Saturday. Three points in the bag… Come on the reds
I love the Ox. This guy will take the league by storm in the very near future. One of the most exciting young players there is. Sometimes I just forget he’s 20+.
it’s really a shame he’s knackered for this derby. he’s due for a goal here soon, and how lovely would it have been at WHL.