Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain confirmed fit for the World Cup

Zee Media Bureau/Dattaraj Thaly

New Delhi: After suffering a knee ligament damage during the 2-2 draw against Ecuador, doubts were cast over whether Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would be fully fit in time for England`s World Cup opener against Italy on June 15. However, contrary to fears of England fans, Roy Hodgson confirmed that the attacking midfielder would be fit in time for the World Cup when he spoke to the press after England`s 0-0 draw against 10-men Honduras at Miami. After failing to win both their warm up matches, the news about the 20-year-old`s fitness will definitely help lift the spirits of the “Three Lions” faithful. However, it is unclear as to how Hodgson will employ Chamberlain in his scheme of things. England have already lost Theo Walcott and Kyle Walker due to injury and hence will be relieved to come out of the warm-up matches without any injury scares as a relatively young squad head to Brazil. “The Ox” has scored 3 goals in 15 appearances for England. During the 2013-14 season, he scored 3 goals in 20 matches for Arsenal. Hodgson will most likely use him as an impact-sub by using his pace late on during games. It is evident from looking at the England squad as to why Chamberlain is such an important player for them. He offers speed up front which is lacking especially due to Walcott`s absence. With a potent mix of speed and strength, he will pose quite a few problems to tiring defenders in Brazil.