That was an interesting and encouraging performance by our friend the Ox tonight. I really enjoyed watching him against San Marino, and I was glad to see that Roy Hodgson had given him a central, pivotal role in midfield this time. Not everything was great, and Alex clearly has still a lot to learn, but there were plenty of positives in his performance tonight.
What I liked about him was his attitude; always making himself available and drawing the ball towards him. His England team members were very happy to play the ball to him and as such Alex did really well tonight. To be so involved and become a central part of the national team is very impressive for a 19 year old.
He has got a good ability to see the wider picture of the game and is very good at spreading the game by moving the ball from one flank to another with just a quick move or diagonal pass. He acts and passes very quickly and instinctively. He is also good at spotting deeper runs in front of him, but definitely needs to work on improving the accuracy – angles and weight – of his through-balls.
Especially in the end he lacked accuracy and quite a lot of his passes were off-target. This was probably to do with fatigue as a result of him continuously making runs and finding space to receive a pass. I think it is fair to say that his passing needs further improving, if he is to hold on to a central midfield position, but I am sure he’ll make progress in this area over the next few years.
I loved the way he took his goal: that was pure class and his finishing in the box is definitely one of his strongest assets. From what I have seen tonight, I still feel his best place is on the right or left wing, where he can use his strengths to full effect. He is good at taking on defenders and getting the ball in the box. And as said before, he is also a good finisher, especially for a 19 year old.
Alex is a super prospect and we are lucky to have him. He is growing up very quickly, and although I still think Arsenal need to take it easy with him, this could well be his breakthrough year.
Total Arsenal.
Bergkampesque 