"He has been left behind a little bit" - Roy Keane on Liverpool midfielder

Pundit Roy Keane has recently given his opinion on Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The Reds signed the Englishman from Arsenal for a transfer fee of €38 million back in the summer of 2017. However, Oxlade-Chamberlain's time at Liverpool has been hampered by injuries.

The 28-year-old has been in and out of the side over the years. But, Keane believes that Oxlade-Chamberlain has now been left behind at Anfield.

The Irishman is basically implying that there are plenty of other players ahead of the midfielder in the pecking order.

“Injury problems. He [Oxlade-Chamberlain] is now, what 28? His career has stalled over the last years. He has been left behind a little bit," Keane said on ITV, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo.

“But a quality player.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

We can definitely see where Keane is coming from. Despite being fit, Oxlade-Chamberlain has only started in 15 games for Liverpool this season.

The reality is, the likes of Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Naby Keita and Fabinho are all ahead of the Englishman in the pecking order.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been used as a forward at different times this season. But, a handful of attacking players are ahead of him too (Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Diogo Jota, Sadio Mane and Luis Diaz).

There is no denying that Oxlade-Chamberlain possesses ability. Footage highlights that he is more than capable of scoring and creating goals.

Back in October 2019, former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand provided an insight into why the midfielder is a good player.

"He can dribble past people which is hard for a midfielder," the 43-year-old told BT Sport.

"It’s great to see him get back in [the team]. I like the way that he gets into those [attacking] positions.

"Once he gets into those pockets in behind the opposition’s midfield he can dribble and shoot.

"He’s a fantastic footballer and it’s all about decision making there. He offers something totally different in the midfield for Liverpool."

But, as Keane has implied, Oxlade-Chamberlain's career at Anfield could be coming to an end.

If he wants to play regular senior football, he may have to depart the club.

Oxlade-Chamberlain's contract expires in June 2023. Transfermarkt value 28-year-old at €18 million.