Premier League 2017/18: 5 summer signings who haven't lived up to expectations

#5 Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Manchester City v Liverpool - Premier League — Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has had a torrid time at Liverpool thus far

When Oxlade-Chamberlain refused to sign a new contract at Arsenal last summer, the word was that he wanted out of the Emirates due to become sick and tired of being used purely as a utility player by Arsene Wenger.

Chamberlain supposedly fancied himself as a central midfielder, rather than a winger or wing-back, and it was clear that with talents such as Mesut Ozil, Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsey ahead of him, he probably needed a move. Chelsea were a potential suitor but in the end, the England international moved to Liverpool for £35m.

Unfortunately, chances for Chamberlain to prove himself as a central midfielder seem to be coming more commonly from his England appearances than his club ones. He hasn’t started a Premier League game since moving to Anfield and he’s already appeared out wide for his new club, too. With the likes of Jordan Henderson and Philippe Coutinho ahead of him in the queue for a spot in the centre of midfield, what did he really expect?

Chamberlain has looked poor when he has appeared for Liverpool, too – missing a gilt-edged chance in their most recent game against Newcastle, for instance. He still appears to be in Gareth Southgate’s England plans though and is hoping good performances for his country can kickstart his club career. Whether that is truly the case though is still a huge question mark.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Amit Mishra