ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN has scored two goals since joining Celtic as a free agent three months ago.
And those strikes could be the difference between success and failure as the champions chase their fifth successive title.
The Ox’s double proved to be Parkhead matchwinners against Livingston, a stoppage-time hit in a 2-1 triumph in February, and St Mirren, 1-0 last month.
However, the 32-year-old former Arsenal, Liverpool and England international midfielder last made a first-team appearance in a 12-minute cameo in the champions’ 3-1 home win over Falkirk on April 25.
He has not been required to come off the bench in the last three games, crucial victories against Hibs (2-1), Rangers (3-1) and Motherwell (3-2).
SMILES BETTER…debut Bhoy Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates his stoppage-time winner against Livingston in his first Celtic appearance at Parkhead in February.
Oxlade-Chamberlain won’t be in at the start against Hearts in the title showdown this afternoon and the best he can hope for is another substitute’s role.
It could also emerge as the player’s last opportunity to say farewell to the fans in the east end of Glasgow with the club displaying no urgency in triggering the 12-month option on the short-term deal he signed on February 8, three days before his points-clincher against Livi.
Tomas Cvancara has had his loan deal scrapped early and has returned to Borussia Monchengladbach and two other January arrivals, Junior Adamu and Joel Mvuka, will be on their way back to SC Freiburg and Lorient respectively.
It appears odds on Oxlade-Chamberlain will join the Celtic clear-out.
Thanks to Ox for the memories – and the two winning goals – in his brief time at the club and all at CQN wish him all the best for the future.
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report and best action images from Celtic v Hearts this afternoon – only in your champion CQN.
IT’S THE BOOK DEAL OF THE YEAR! You can now own a copy of ‘Celtic 50 Flags Plus One’ AND ‘Celtic Treble Treble’ for only £9.95 plus postage. Two stunning Celtic publications and you can save a massive £20! Order now! Just click the image for details and your books will be on their way. Happy reading!
Click Here for Comments >
