The backlash from Tuesday’s more than humbling defeat against Bayern Munich has seen the anger towards manager Arsene Wenger intensify and spread further, with the owners now on the receiving end of the fans wrath.

However, it’s not only those in the stands that are seemingly reacting to the persistent capitulation from within the Gunners camp. Reports have emerged suggesting that Arsenal forward Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is ready to quit the club, with top Premier League rivals circling.

Whilst the England international is not as important to the side as the likes of Alexis Sanchez or Mesut Ozil, the rumours should be no less worrying to Gunners fans.

There was much excitement when the winger, son of former England man Mark Chamberlain, arrived from Southampton in 2011, and whilst, like Theo Walcott before him, the Ox is yet to reach the levels expected of him, the fact that the likes of Manchester United and their fierce rivals Pep Guardiola are being linked says a lot.

It wasn’t long ago that the 23-year-old was on Sky Sports admitting that he may have to look at a move away from Arsenal, essentially to a smaller club, in order to secure first team football and kick his career onto the next level, with links back to the south coast popping up last summer.

Now, with the north London club seemingly in free-fall, the most esteemed managers in world football are considering a move for the Englishman.

While the rumours would be worrying for those at the club, they can also serve as a wakeup call. It is not in doubt that Wenger rates the winger, however, he has not made it clear enough this season. Aside from a top four finish, which is still highly achievable, there is little to play for this season other than the FA Cup.

Wenger must use the remaining chances he has between now and May to renew his faith in Chamberlain, giving him every opportunity to show the club and fans why he is attracting the likes of Guardiola and Jose Mourinho.

Amongst everything that has happened recently, the last thing Wenger needs is another top talent leaving and finding success elsewhere in the Premier League. Give Chamberlain a run and he could for the base for an impressive side over the next few years.