Wenger: Ox deserving of Arsenal accolades

Switching to an unfamiliar position and earning the Arsenal player of the month award, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has certainly taken to wing-back like a duck to water in the eyes of Arsene Wenger.

The manager has been watching keenly from the sidelines with his England international taking new experiences in his stride, with a number of eye-catching performances helping both his and the team’s cause.

That culminated in a Gunners April player of the month accolade for the former midfield dynamo, part of a defensive unit operating with wingbacks and three centre-backs for the first time in Wenger’s tenure.

But despite his impressive performances, Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract is due to expire at the end of next season, though Wenger is confident the 23-year-old will continue to ply his trade at the Emirates.

“I think [the award is well deserved] because his performances have been convincing and positive,” said Wenger. “It looks like he’s made a move forward. I’m very pleased for him.

“He’s happy with his position, where he’s playing at the moment. I’m convinced that he has all the qualities to play well there so hopefully it will give him the needed confidence.

“Personally, as I have told you many times, he has to commit his future to the club and I hope he will do that in the summer.”