With a big footballing year ahead, we look at three of the names that could have a big say in the domestic and international game in 2012. As the Premier League, Champions League and Euro 2012 issues get resolved, this trio could play a big role.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The Arsenal youngster is slowly starting to make an impact at the Emirates following his summer move from Southampton. With the Gunners still fighting on three fronts, Oxlade-Chamberlain could find himself coming to the fore, especially if Arsenal (6/5 Top Four Finish) suffer key injuries.
The inconsistent form of Theo Walcott is another factor which could lead to more game-time for the winger, who has scored twice in five appearances this season. The 18-year-old certainly looks the part and may even be an outside bet to make the England squad for Euro 2012 (England 11/8 Group D Winners), should Arsenal enjoy a some trophy success.
Arsene Wenger has already alluded to the fact that Oxlade-Chamberlain has impressed him and although normally wary to over-play his teenage stars, the Frenchman could be tempted to use his blistering pace and freshness in key games towards the end of the season.
Mario Balotelli
Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore Mario Balotelli. Opinion is divided as to whether he is a liability or a genius, with Roberto Mancini holding the answer.
The City boss is probably the only current manager able to get the best out of the striker, having worked with him before at Inter Milan. With Carlos Tevez set to leave in January and City (8/13 Premier League Outright) unlikely to splash the cash again in the New Year, Balotelli could have a big say in the destination of the Premier League title.
On the plus side, his goals and performances in recent months have been outstanding. He shone in the 6-1 win at rivals United and his cheeky finish against Norwich summed up his ability. The negatives are there to see as well though, with his daft sending off at Liverpool almost costing his team.
The 21-year-old is a likely inclusion in the Italy squad (14/1 Tournament Winner) for the European Championship and he will be flying should he have already collected a Premier League winners medal.
Connor Wickham
The young striker could yet hold the key to Sunderland’s top flight survival, with Martin O’Neill selecting him for his first two games as manager before injury struck. The capture from Ipswich was used sparingly during the reign of Steve Bruce and that now looks an unwise move.
Bruce attempted to ease Wickham into Premier League life, but with a lack of attacking options, the striker should have been starting sooner for the Black Cats (13/2 to be relegated). The 18-year-old has already impressed for England Under-21’s and in brief glimpses, has suggested that he can repay the £8million that Sunderland paid for him.
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