Arsene Wenger’s summer signing of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain did not sit well with a number of fans. Here we were in the midst of a midfield crisis could see all the quality sucked a single blow and Wenger blew 12 million pounds of high value in a proven talent. Where was the priority? I admit that an uncomfortable sense of skepticism in my heart deeply seated in dire need of a good colon cleansing.

Well, two months later, that feeling has diminished after OC to see what Alex can do in the field. Arsenal need someone who has a muscular presence and finishing compound. He showed against both Bolton and Olympiakos. One has to admire the way they swept the ball between the legs of a defender Olof Mellberg veterans for the first goal. Great first touch and an instinct even better score first.

Target first OC CL 18 and 44 days broke a record for Arsenal. This achievement is even more impressive given that it has been pressured to first team action without a learning period. This is an emergency situation with the team all bloodied and battered and missing a number of crucial parts. That learning curve has to be very steep. So far, OC, has been shown to be a quick study.

Be in the spotlight after these games. This is where mental toughness becomes absolutely essential in the maintenance of succumbing to that pressure. Even a veteran like Cesc Fabregas out showed the wear of an unwanted burden on him. Some of the OC companions in the team has flirted with the promise, but not quite at the level of potential. There is an opportunity waiting to be taken.