OPINION
Often the moments that define seasons, and especially title challenges, occur on the pitch. But Jurgen Klopp’s recent revelation that Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could return to action in February might be one of those rare times when the pivotal point of a campaign happens away from the field of play.
The Reds boss, as quoted by the London Evening Standard, has said that the England international looks in line for a return in late February or early March, confounding expectations that he was set to miss the entire of the season after he underwent knee surgery in May this year.
Klopp described the update as ‘the best news’, and he’s certainly not wrong. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s return would be absolutely massive, and could be the catalyst for Liverpool’s first title triumph since 1990.
It’s easy to forget the impact that the former Arsenal man had at Anfield once he was up to speed with Klopp’s way of playing. He was incredible in the second half of last season, and is possibly the most talented midfielder at the club.
It’s been clear at times this campaign that the Reds have missed Oxlade-Chamberlain. His driving runs from midfield and eye for goal cannot be replicated by the coterie of central midfield talents at Klopp’s disposal.
The closest the German has is Xherdan Shaqiri, but the Swiss star is a trickster of a player, whereas Oxlade-Chamberlain has evolved into a powerhouse of a midfield operator.
Midfield is the one area of the pitch that you could look at and say there’s room for improvement with this Liverpool team. They have plenty of talent in that area of the field, but no one standout player.
Oxlade-Chamberlain hinted last year that he could be that transcendent talent in the middle of the park for Klopp’s side. His performances in the team’s Champions League run, in particular, were phenomenal.
If Liverpool remain in a tight race for the title with City come the final few months of the season it could be Oxlade-Chamberlain’s return that tips the Reds over the edge.
It’s not hyperbole to say that the 25-year-old could be the difference in this year’s title race – he has the talent and the drive to propel Liverpool to a long awaited Premier League triumph.
