Song earns rave reviews from team-mate

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has compared Arsenal team-mate Alex Song to former club captain Cesc Fabregas.

Cameroon international Song has impressed for the north London team this season, contributing 13 assists in all competitions, despite his nominal role as a holding midfielder.

And Oxlade-Chamberlain, who joined Arsenal from Southampton in August 2011, has lauded the performances of his senior colleague.

“I can’t remember the last game he didn’t play – he is always there,” Oxlade-Chamberlain told the Arsenal website.

“Sometimes you don’t notice the stuff he does, the defensive side of the game, but he is always there cleaning up.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain praised Song’s unexpected influence in the final third for Arsenal, and also spoke highly of the 24-year-old’s positive presence in the dressing room.

“Obviously he has been bringing assists to the team as well,” he said.

“Some of the passes he has been putting in, like for two of the unbelievable volleys Robin (van Persie) has scored, reminds me technically of watching Fabregas put those balls through.”

“For a holding midfielder to do that, as well as the defensive side of the game, is brilliant. You can’t ask for anything more.

“He has been brilliant for us all season and he is a really good guy to have in the dressing room as well.

“He is always happy and putting smiles on everyone’s faces – he is a massive part of the squad.”