The man his teammates fondly call “Chambo,” Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is really coming into his own at Arsenal. Injuries and inconsistency once hindered his development, but both are a thing of the past and Chamberlain is beginning to prove a real asset to the side.

He’s been brilliant lately, running at full backs and attacking with purpose, and defenders simply cannot live with his pace and strength. He was Arsenal’s only standout performer against Swansea (promise I won’t talk about that debacle for long), as he started the counter attack that lead to Sanchez’s goal.

Alex deserves some recognition having been unfairly in and out of the team for long periods in the last few season. Every time I thought he had done enough to stay in the side, he had to settle for a spot on the bench. His performances have been awarded this season though, as he is playing every week and is the only man to have featured in every premier league match this season. His goals against Anderlecht and Tottenham show he is continuing to add to his game still and it is exciting to think Chamberlain will continue to develop.

Gooners won’t be surprised by this, as he has always shown glimpses of brilliance. His masterclass against Bayern last season was a clear indication of his capability and he came just short of replicating that performance on several occasions. He just lacked the consistency to maintain this production and influence the game every week, but he looks to have fixed that this season.

I like what I’m seeing from Alex and look forward to seeing more as the season progresses. The time has come for him to take matches  by the scruff of the neck more often and become a key man in the side. He is a part of the young core and is integral to Arsenal’s future plans, so we need Alex to start embracing a bigger role.

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