OX DEMANDS CUP-WINNING KIDS STEP UP
ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN has warned England’s World Cup-winning kids they have still got to prove themselves.
Oxlade-Chamberlain admits it will be difficult for any of England’s under-20s (below) to break into their Premier League teams and win senior international call-ups.
That is the biggest fear for England’s next generation because, despite becoming the first team to win a global tournament since 1966, they now face a major battle to get regular games.
Arsenal midfielder OxladeChamberlain, 23, said: “Managers have different agendas. They have to put out teams to try to win things.
“That can be difficult, particularly in the Premier League, given how competitive it is and how many foreign players come over wanting to win things. “Any experience they gain at a younger age can only benefit them. But it’s up to the players, likewise, to make sure the managers have no choice but to play them.” Oxlade-Chamberlain made a dramatic impact at Arsenal after joining them in 2011 and played at Euro 2012 but since then has often struggled to hold down a regular place for club and country.
He is now hoping for a fresh start under Gareth Southgate after missing out on the last World Cup and Euros.
Oxlade-Chamberlain added: “My England career, honestly, I feel like it is has been in two halves. I’m starting the second part of it.
“Everything came quite quick and fast, and I got a lot of caps quite quickly, then was injured and had a spell out, missed the Euros.
“There was quite a long gap where I didn’t play. In this squad, a lot of new boys have come in so it feels like a new squad. Strange, but a new challenge and quite a refreshing one to be a part of.
“A bit stop-start, my career, but I have a lot of faith in this new team and the manager and what we’re trying to build here. I’m excited about the journey.
“The Under-20 lads, they’ll get opportunities depending upon how well they do. The manager is not afraid to give opportunities.”