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Ox - Why versatility is so important

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has stressed the importance of versatility during the early stages of a young player's career.

The England international has primarily been used out wide since joining Arsenal in 2011, but can also play in central midfield.

"If you look at our midfielders, they are often asked to play in different positions. Aaron has played out wide and he goes out there and puts his own spin on it and does a good job"

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Oxlade-Chamberlain accepts he will eventually have to decide on one position, but says that being adept in several roles can only be a benefit.

“Versatility is an extra string to a player’s bow,” he told Arsenal Player. “Look at someone like Philipp Lahm, who is one of the best right backs in the world but can go into midfield and play as if he’s one of the best midfielders in the world.

“All through your career you will be asked to play in different positions here and there and obviously the needs of the team come first, so if you have to fill in in a different role, you will be expected to do that.

"If you look at our midfielders, they are often asked to play in different positions. Aaron has played out wide and he goes out there and puts his own spin on it and does a good job. Over the years I can remember Tomas Rosicky playing out wide as well.

“If people play in another position, maybe they will play it slightly differently to someone else but they will put their own spin on the game. So for everyone it is important to have a versatile side to your game.”

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