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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Sean Bradbury & Matt Addison

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain prompts timely transfer reminder after honest Liverpool admission

Liverpool are still yet to decide firmly on their transfer plans as the season comes to a close, with big decisions still to be made.

Changes to the squad are not likely to be wholesale, but some of those players with reduced minutes are likely to move on - the question is how many, and who those players might be.

Not all of them can move on at once, partly because Liverpool would then need to replace them.

The Reds would also be unlikely to get offers at the level they would like following the pandemic and the economic knock-on effect.

One of those who has been linked with a move away at times over the last few weeks is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Turning 28 on the first weekend of next season, the midfielder has started just two Premier League matches this campaign, and has come off the bench on 10 occasions, often only for under 10 minutes.

It is clear, then, why a move away is being mooted, even if his cameo off the bench this week showcased a glimpse what he can bring to the table at his best.

"Chamberlain came on against Burnley and did what we all know he can do," said Sean Bradbury on the latest Poetry in Motion podcast from Blood Red.

"That incisive running, quick feet and a great drilled finish, we know he can provide.

"With him, it is just the few significant injuries he's suffered have not helped, but you would lean towards keeping him around.

"He is English, which helps with squad quotas, he is fairly versatile and he seems a great presence in the dressing room."

Versatility could be the crucial factor, as well as the fact an unrefusable offer is unlikely to arrive.

Chamberlain has been playing as the number nine at times this season where he will only increase in comfort as time goes by, while he can play as a number eight in the centre of midfield or out wide too.

Listen to the latest podcast from Blood Red by clicking HERE

One trait that Jurgen Klopp loves in a player is the ability to play in multiple roles, a particularly useful skill for a player who is unlikely to be first-choice given the plethora of other options available.

There are certainly reasons to think that, unless a massive offer was to come in, Liverpool should keep Chamberlain - and the player himself is absolutely clear on where he sees his future lying.

"I’ve felt pretty good for a while now, but for whatever reason, it’s not been so easy with opportunities," Oxlade-Chamberlain told Liverpool's in-house TV channel after the full-time whistle at Turf Moor.

"Sometimes [being sidelined or on the bench is] part of football - it’s not what you like," he added.

"I’ve been kicking myself, trying to push and ask questions, but sometimes it doesn’t always go your way.

"I’m absolutely delighted to be a part of this team and play for this football club, and that’s what I want to do."

The summer will be a big chance for him to gain rhythm again. With two years remaining on his contract at Anfield, it will be crucial in determining his long-term future too.

But his sharpness against Burnley was encouraging - and a reminder of the player Chamberlain can be when his fitness doesn't get in the way.

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