Sky Sports pundit Leon Osman has heaped praise on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who has recently returned to the Liverpool mix after a long-term knee problem. The England international barely featured for the Reds last term after going through rehabilitation for an anterior cruciate ligament damage sustained during the backend of the 2017/18 season.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Osman spoke positively about the quality of the former Arsenal man and he has been impressed by the fact that the 26-year-old has been able to adapt to a central midfield role under Jurgen Klopp.

He said: “I think he is a brilliant player. When he made the move from Arsenal, a lot of people questioned it. Was he good enough? Could he play in midfield? Could he get used to the style of play at Liverpool? But he’s adapted so quickly to the energetic style that Jurgen Klopp’s men have then added that quality to his game from a more central position.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain had largely featured on the wide attacking and full-back positions during his time at Arsenal and there were certainly doubts whether he would fit into Klopp’s plans. In the current season, Oxlade-Chamberlain has managed just two starts but there have nonetheless been positives with the Englishman looking comfortable with the central midfield role.

Liverpool are currently at the top of the Premier League standings with 18 points from the opening six league games. That sees them with a five-point advantage over Manchester City and they look good value to push for a maiden Premier League crown at the moment. The Reds are scheduled to face MK Dons on the road during the midweek League Cup tie. Oxlade-Chamberlain should be among the starters for the game with Klopp due to make wholesale changes. Apart from Oxlade-Chamberlain, Adam Lallana, Joe Gomez and Rhian Brewster should be afforded with gametime.