Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Celtic contract expires today, but the club should make the straightforward decision and trigger the reported one-year extension option.
Not every signing has to become a first-team regular to justify their place. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was brought to Celtic to provide depth and experience, and he has delivered both.
Would you extend Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract?
Celtic signed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for depth and he delivered
When Celtic brought the former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder to Glasgow in February, the expectation was never that he would immediately displace Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate or Arne Engels.
Instead, he was signed to strengthen the squad during a crucial stage of the season.
He provided cover, experience and another trusted option for Martin O’Neill when needed.
Celtic can point to stats that support keeping him
The numbers from his short spell at Parkhead suggest there is still value to be had.
- 2 Premiership goals
- 425 league minutes
- 9 Premiership appearances
- 5 league starts
- 6.85 average FotMob rating
Two goals from just 425 league minutes is a respectable contribution from a player operating largely as a squad option.
Those figures do not point towards someone who has become surplus to requirements.
Celtic do not need Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to be a regular starter
That is where this debate should begin. Squad players are judged differently from first-team regulars.
Celtic already have established midfielders ahead of him, but every successful season requires depth. Injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion quickly expose squads that lack experienced alternatives.
Celtic should take the low-risk option and extend his stay
The reported extension clause gives Celtic flexibility without committing to a lengthy contract. The club already knows the player, he understands the demands of the Celtic dressing room and he has contributed when called upon.
Unless there is a clearly superior replacement already lined up, extending Oxlade-Chamberlain’s stay for another season looks like the sensible decision.
Celtic signed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to be a reliable squad player, not a guaranteed starter. He has fulfilled that role, contributed when called upon and given Martin O’Neill another trusted option. Triggering the extension should be the easy decision.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
