Age: 21
Nationality: English
Position: Central Midfield / Attacking Midfield
Squad no. 15
Height: 5ft 11
Interesting Fact: Chamberlain was offered a trial at Rugby Union side London Irish, but chose to pursue a career in football.
Chamberlain started out at Southampton’s famous youth academy, joining at the age of 7. He became the Saints second ever youngest player, behind Theo Walcott, when he made his debut at the age of 16 years and 199 days, coming off the bench in a 5-0 hammering over Huddersfield Town. In the 10/11 campaign he really shot to prominence and helped Southampton gain promotion, scoring 9 goals along the way whilst also getting into the League One team of the year. At the end of the season many big clubs were trying to capture his services, but Arsenal got in there first securing an initial £12 million move for the youngster. At Arsenal, during his three seasons he has shown big promise, but injuries have often prevented him playing consistently. To date he has made 85 appearances for the club, scoring 9 times.
How Much Will He Play?
He is one of Arsenal’s most versatile players and can play anywhere in the midfield. When everyone is fit, it may be difficult for him to maintain a starting place. Injuries are quite prevalent in the Arsenal side though and should the Ox be able to keep himself fit then he’ll be in the starting line-up on a regular basis. He still has a lot of developing to do, and it’s still unclear where he’ll eventually end up position wise, but his all round game and attacking play means he brigs a lot of speed to the Arsenal attack and it won’t be long before Chamberlain becomes a regular for the Gunners.
How Well Will He Do?
Chamberlain has excellent ability and his versatility means he can take up different positions on the pitch and still be equally effective. Generally, in his last three seasons with the club he has done very well and his speed and strength bring a lot to the Arsenal attack. When he plays it always looks as though he’s going to make something happen and at such a young age, with the developing he still has to do, it looks as though he’ll be a magnificent player. Goals and assists are where the Ox needs to improve, but I’m sure that will come in time and this season he should do very well, providing that he stays fit!
Read: Report cards for the whole Arsenal squad
Tackling: 6/10
Crossing: 8/10
Passing: 6/10
Shooting: 7/10
Speed 9/10
Strength: 8/10
Current Value: £15million
Potential Value: £40million
Overall Rating: 7.5/10