Young gun backs Hodgson´s belief

Arsenal teenager Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has vowed to pay back England manager Roy Hodgson for selecting him for Euro 2012.

Oxlade-Chamberlain was picked in Hodgson’s 23-man squad on Wednesday for the tournament in Poland and Ukraine ahead of more experienced wingers such as Aaron Lennon and the 18-year-old has promised to prove the England manager was right to take him to Euro 2012.

“I got a call (Wednesday) morning from the manager and he just explained it to me then – that was about two hours before it was announced,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said.

“He said it was down to merit and I just have to prove him right.”

Speaking on Arsenal’s website, Oxlade-Chamberlain said he believes he can replicate his vibrant style on the international stage.

“I think I play with no fear, I run at players regardless of who they are and try to make a difference,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said.

“I have a youthful enthusiasm and I am so excited about this that I will try and take any opportunity with both hands.”

The former Southampton youngster, who has only played 26 matches for Arsenal, will make his senior international debut if he gets on the pitch in any of England’s warm-up friendlies or at the tournament proper.

“I am just looking forward to going there, learning from all the experienced players, training with them and trying my hand at everything. I am absolutely buzzing,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said.

“I would have probably laughed if someone had told me I would be in the Euro 2012 (squad) a year ago.

“Obviously you would like to think that and it is what you aim towards but sometimes you have to be realistic and realise it might take a little bit longer than that.”