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‘Chamberlain thriving in new role’ – Three things learnt from Arsenal 2-1 Manchester City
Arsenal’s Oxlade-Chamberlain thriving in new role
Arsene Wenger’s decision to persist with a three-man defensive system, despite their struggles against lowly Middlesbrough last week, proved far more fruitful against Manchester City.
Rob Holding and Gabriel were both exceptional in the centre of defence and, for the most part, kept the likes of Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane quiet, but it was another man who thrived in the system.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has played almost everywhere this season under Arsene Wenger but it seems like his new position as a right-wing back is the most inspired experiment yet.
Quick enough and strong enough to track back and nullify the potent threat of Sane, his attacking instincts made him an asset all afternoon down the right-hand side of the Arsenal team, attempting more crosses (eight) than anyone else on the pitch – including the pivotal one for Nacho Monreal.
His assist for Arsenal’s equaliser was superb, whipping an in-swinging teasing ball just far enough away from Claudio Bravo to come and claim and right onto the feet of Monreal’s rampaging run.
Based on Sunday’s display it’s apparent that Wenger is likely to keep trying this system, and with Chamberlain enjoying a purple patch of form he could be key to any hopes of reaching the top four.