Oxlade-Chamberlain aims to emulate dad

Recognised as one of the greatest nights in their entire history, England's 2-0 win over Brazil in 1984 is chiefly remembered for John Barnes' magnificent solo goal. Mark Chamberlain was on the other wing though, meaning the story of what unfolded is well known to Oxlade-Chamberlain.

"The only thing I saw was the John Barnes goal and my dad celebrating," he said. "I never actually saw him touch the ball in that game. Obviously if I can make it that far, keep getting back into the squads and make it to the World Cup that would be another massive step in my career. As my dad played away in Brazil like that, it would be a good one for the memory book."

Chamberlain won only eight caps in a career of unfulfilled potential.

He did enough on the domestic stage for his name to have resonance amongst Oxlade-Chamberlain's teachers during his schooldays, though, even if his class-mates were rather harder to impress.

"Most of my mates didn't know who he was until their dads told them," he said.

"He's been a massive help in my career and it's good to have him around.

"When I said I wanted to be a footballer, teachers would tell me 'you've got no chance, make sure you do your homework'.

"But I always knew."

Source: PA

Source: PA