The new Liverpool signing has played as a winger, in central midfielder or as a wing-back throughout his career.

And Joleon Lescott believes Oxlade-Chamberlain has been hampered by his versatility.

“A lot has been made of his football intelligence,” he told Sky Sports.

“I think that will show and I think that has shown with that fact that he can in a number of positions.

“Obviously working and playing with Alex at England level I see the qualities that he has.

“He’s got a great understanding of the game and a great knowledge.

“Probably centre-midfield (is where he liked to play). Due to his attributes and his pace and his power, he could play out wide.

“I think that’s, in hindsight, probably a bit of a downfall that he can adapt to certain positions.

“There’s been other players in the past that prefer a position like James Milner but can with their understanding of the game, play in other positions.

“It kind of hinders their progression.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain made the £35m switch from Arsenal to Liverpool before the transfer window shut.

And the 24-year-old could make his debut this Saturday when the Reds travel to Manchester City in the Premier League.