Arsene Wenger: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has similar qualities to Jack Wilshere

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Arsene Wenger has spoken of his belief that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain can be a world-class midfielder one day, capable of having a real effect at both ends of the pitch.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been in imperious form after missing the first four months of the season, with his return helping to off-set the absence of Theo Walcott in the Arsenal midfield.

And Wenger believes he can become one of the leading midfielders in the Premier League, calling on the former Southampton youngster to follow the example set by Jack Wilshere.

Wenger told reporters at the Daily Star, “He has shown potential. I think there’s a lot more to come from him in many areas, but there’s potential there to work on.

“Can he move to central midfield permanently? Yes, I’ve said that many times.

“He has the sense of the positional play, he has the qualities you want to see in the modern game.

“He has that capability to break through because there is a lot of pressure in the modern game and players who have that ability to get out of pressure are very important.

“He has good vision, there’s still a lot to work on. I think he has interesting qualities in that position, he has similar qualities to Jack (Wilshere).

“I’m sure he has observed Jack a lot to take all the information from Jack as well. He can develop in a similar role.