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Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain 'must accept compromise' to save Anfield career
Former Arsenal star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain may have to use his versatility to his advantage this season.
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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain may have to flaunt his versatility as he enters a monumental season in his Liverpool career. Injuries have hampered the 27-year-old throughout his four-year stint at Anfield, but he now has an opportunity to become a regular in Jurgen Klopp's side.
Oxlade-Chamberlain's time at Liverpool started so promisingly after completing a £35million move from Arsenal.
However, the midfield star made just two starts in all competitions last season as he became one of many casualties of an injury-riddled campaign.
Now back to full fitness and featuring heavily in Liverpool's pre-season fixtures, opportunity knocks for Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Georginio Wijnaldum's free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain has left a blatant spot available in Jurgen Klopp's midfield.
However, with Klopp targeting a new midfielder this summer, Oxlade-Chamberlain may have to accept a compromise if he's to receive a suitable amount of game time.
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At the end of last season, Oxlade-Chamberlain impressed as a false nine against Burnley.
In pre-season, Klopp has utilised the Ox in the same position against Wacker Innsbruck and Stuttgart.
He interchanged with Harvey Elliott in the false nine and advanced midfield positions.
It could be a sign of Klopp's plans to take the pressure off Firmino this term.
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With Klopp pursuing a new midfielder to add to the current competition in the position, Oxlade-Chamberlain may have to get used to a false nine role.
If he's to become a regular on the pitch, he will likely have to fulfil various roles rather than solely his preferred, advanced midfield position.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has been commended for his attitude in the past and is unlikely to revolt against Klopp's wishes.
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With Fabinho and Jordan Henderson expected to be mainstays, a few players will be left to compete for the third spot.
Along with Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita, James Milner, and Curtis Jones will all be vying to become regular starters.
However, Klopp's desire for a new midfield star in the transfer window suggests his level of trust in his current options.
Oxlade-Chamberlain is capable of playing in attack as well as in the middle of the park, though, which should work in his favour in terms of minutes this season.