Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Arsenal

Robin van Persie hailed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Arsenal star Robin van Persie believes that young forward Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has the potential to be a star for club and country.

The 18-year-old has been kept wrapped in cotton wool by manager Arsene Wenger until January and the hot prospect has shone when given his chance.

Arsenal’s top scorer this season, with 32 goals for club and country, believes that the youngster can succeed at the highest level.

“Why not?” he said when asked about whether he should be picked for England. “In the future, definitely. He’s a big prospect. Everyone is enjoying watching him. I do, you do and he brings something extra to the game and people just love it.

“It reminds me of my own period when I was breaking through and was 18 or 19. I believe when you have all these qualities it gives you confidence and you can enjoy yourself.

“He’s not someone who thinks about negatives, just positives and you can enjoy the game like that.

“I had that as well when I was younger. I wasn’t thinking about ‘oh, big stadium, or big game’. I was just enjoying myself.”

The Dutchman does not want to see too much pressure being heaped on Oxlade-Chamberlain as he is still young and learning the game.

“He is a fantastic player already; he’s only 18 and is so young,” van Persie added. “He’s good on the ball - he has everything. He’s quick, he has movement, technique, can score a goal or give an assist. He has a great future.

“But don’t put too much pressure on him. You always have periods when you are young when you have really high highs and you go up and down until you balance it a bit better.

“He will have ups and he will have periods when he’s not playing so well. So my advice is to be aware of it and be patient.”