Arsene Wenger clarifies Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s role in new Arsenal formation

Arsene Wenger has told Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain he needs to find a balance between defence and attack in Arsenal’s new-look 3-4-3 formation.

The England international was named man of the match in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final win over Manchester City but afterwards admitted he was still struggling to come to terms with the defensive requirements of his new role.

Asked if he enjoyed his afternoon Oxlade-Chamberlain laughed, before adding: ‘It’s obviously an interesting positon for me, it’s new.

‘I have to focus on the defensive side of things and I’m not used to being a right-back.’

Wenger suggested Arsenal would again go with three at the back against Leicester on Wednesday but told Oxlade-Chamberlain he need not get too bogged down with his defensive duties.

He said: This system is a formation that is really adaptable. Gabriel can play at right-back so it’s not a strict three at the back.

‘When we have the ball Chamberlain is in midfield, basically.

The 23-year-old is among a clutch of senior Arsenal players who have a little over a year left on their contracts.