Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has an ‘outside chance’ of being available for the upcoming Monday night Hull City fixture, according to Ben Dinnery, injury data analyst for Premier Injuries.
Ben Dinnery alerted the Twitter world today announcing Alex was “closing in on a return”. This is good news for Arsenal, who could have used his speed and strength on the wing in games like FA Cup Semi-final vs. Reading.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been ruled out of the Arsenal squad since March 9 with a grade one hamstring tear suffered during the important victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup quarter-final. Since then Arsene Wenger has also confirmed he has felt “discomfort” in the groin complicating and lengthening his recovery.
It has been speculated recently that Oxlade-Chamberlain could miss the rest of the season with these complications but the recent announcement from Dinnery has created hope amongst fans that would love to see him make a return to action.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s performances before the injuries had been solid, with the England international making a breakthrough in the Arsenal side that has seen him make more appearances this season than ever before. The 21 year-old played a key role in Monreal’s goal against United, making a lightning run inside from the wing passing three defenders to create the opportunity that saw Arsenal go in front.
His pace and strength on the wings could be a valuable asset for Wenger in an attempt to re-establish second place in the Premier League table. If Oxlade-Chamberlain is deemed fit the difficult question for Wenger will be how and when he chooses to play him, especially given the club’s recent form and large fit-ready squad – the only player left in the injury room being midfielder Mikel Arteta, who is still working on match fitness.
If the reports are accurate and Oxlade-Chamberlain does meet match fitness, this is one of those good problems Arsenal fans have rarely had the luxury of experiencing in recent seasons. Another positive sign that the club is moving in the right direction.
