Pundit issues verdict on Chambers future at Arsenal after ‘brilliant’ Liverpool display
Calum Chambers has proven himself to be a reliable option for Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta after his “brilliant” display against Liverpool, according to Kevin Phillips.
However, the former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted he is not sure the 26-year-old is “the future” for the Gunners.
Chambers replaced the stricken Cedric in the first half as 10-man Arsenal held Liverpool 0-0 in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final on Thursday (13 January).
As per Squawka post-match, the defender made the most clearances (eight) of any player during the game and won the most aerial duels (three) of any Gunners player.
Phillips praised the England international for silencing his doubters with Thursday’s showing.
“Credit to Chambers, because it hasn’t been an easy ride for him at Arsenal,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“He’s come in for a bit of criticism over the years, but all you can do when you get on that pitch is try and ram those comments back down people’s throats. He’s done exactly that at Anfield.
“Arteta is trying to create something at Arsenal with the spirit after stripping Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of the captaincy. He really means business, and he wants his players to reflect that as well.
“Chambers really rose to the challenge against Liverpool, he was brilliant. Is he the future of Arsenal? I’m not so sure, but he’s a player Arteta can rely on.”
Chambers has started just two league games for Arsenal this season among five appearances in all competitions.
The versatile defender is out of contract at the end of this season after joining the Gunners in 2014.
In other news, Arsenal favourite tips Arteta to sign Champions League winner this month.