Calum Chambers’ summer loan switch to newly-promoted Fulham likely came as a surprise to many Arsenal fans given that the 23-year-old had only signed a new long-term contract with the North London club in July.
As reported by the club’s official website, new boss Unai Emery stated at the time of the contract extension that Chambers would “be part of my plans this season”.
Yet, before the new Premier League season kicked off, Chambers was shipped out on loan to Craven Cottage, despite the relative lack of defensive depth in the Gunners’ squad.
At 23-years-old, and clearly not in Emery’s immediate plans, time is running out for Chambers to prove his long-term worth to his parent club. The 3-cap England international must impress during his time with the Cottagers, for the sake of his Arsenal career.
However, Slavisa Jokanovic’s side have got off to a dreadful start to top flight life, especially from a defensive perspective. Already, Fulham have conceded 28 goals – more than any other side in the division – with just ten games played. What’s more, Chambers himself has produced a series of poor performances in this time and been guilty of numerous individual errors.
The defender’s poor form must now cast his Arsenal future into doubt. Certainly, the Emirates Stadium faithful are torn over his importance to the club’s plans, with just 44% believing that he still has a future at the club. See the full results below.