England’s Future Talent: Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain

This is the first of a weekly article series which will be focusing on some of the brightest English prospects in football. There is no better way to start then with the highly rated and talked about Southampton midfielder Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain.

Chamberlain is a product of the Saints youth academy and has played for the side since the age of seven after his father-former England player Mark set up a trial for him.

Ever since this day, Chamberlain has progressed vastly and he didn’t have to wait long for his first-team debut in 2010, at the young age of 16.

The youngster is now a first-team regular in Nigel Adkins side and he scored his first senior goal this season in the 2-0 win over Bournemouth in the first round of the League Cup.

There was more good news to come, as he followed up his goal by signing a three-year professional contract at Southampton.

After starting out as a central midfielder, Chamberlain has now developed into a winger. His first league goal came in October 2010 when he came off the bench to score the winner in the 2-1 victory against Oldham Athletic.

It’s no surprise that with all the attention he has been receiving that Chamberlain has been called up into the England youth set-up and is a member of the Under 18 side.

Also, many regard him as Southampton’s best prospect since Theo Walcott and comparisons have been made between the two as they both play on the wing.

Although Chamberlain has been playing on the wing, he is not an out-an-out winger like Walcott and he is still often encouraged to play in the middle.

His experience from playing in the middle means his range of passing is very good and he has the benefit of having an ex-pro in his father who can help him develop and learn.

The 17-year-old has some excellent attributes, which really show why he is attracting some of the top Premier League clubs.

He has an admirable first touch that works well with his great-turn of pace and it seems that he will only get quicker and stronger.

His dribbling is the attribute that has really been noticed though, he is a quick and powerful runner with some silky skills to turn defenders inside out.

This is backed up with good crossing and awareness abilities, which show he can deliver a killer ball when needed.

Chamberlain also packs a fierce shot and although he may not be a natural goal-scorer, he does have an eye for goal.

He has been attracting the attention of Premier League clubs Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United and although he hasn’t moved yet, it surely wont be long until his presence graces The Premiership, which could then lead to him being one of England’s brightest stars.

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