Wenger - Ox will be a central midfielder

Arsene Wenger has hailed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s versatility - but still believes he will end up as a central midfielder.

The England international has been used in a variety of positions since joining Arsenal in August 2011, often on the flanks.

However, Wenger believes he has all the right qualities to prosper in the middle of the park later on in his career.

“At the moment he is still in formation,” the boss said. “It is good for his education as he plays left, right and centrally when needed. After [the age of] 23 or 24 you settle in a definite position.

“He will be deeper as he has a good long ball, penetration from deep and a good quality to distribute and penetrate individually. Certainly he has the same qualities to Steven Gerrard.

“He is a bit of a Ramsey type.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain impressed in central midfield in England’s 2-2 draw with Brazil last summer, and Wenger says the 20-year-old has a chance to stake his claim now upon his return.

“He has a good opportunity,” he said. “I think he will be in Roy Hodgson's plans as he can play centrally and out wide. On that front England do not have too many players.

“He had a big impact when he came on in that game against Brazil, especially in central midfield - and deep central midfield. His future will be there.”