Ex-Gunner explains why he’s training with Arsenal u21s
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has explained how his current training with Arsenal U21s has been going and how the club now look set for success.
Image via SkySports.com
Former Gunner Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain recently returned to training with Arsenal’s Under-21s, playing several sessions and a behind-closed-doors friendly with the team.
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As for how his return to the club came about, the midfielder told The Athletic this week that his bond with former teammate Per Mertesacker had proven vital.
“I spoke to Per,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said. “I asked him if it was possible to come and train with the under-21s, and I explained to him how I thought I could also add value by working with the younger players.
“Per liked the idea, and then he obviously had to get it approved internally.”
Image via SkySports.com
After Arteta called Oxlade-Chamberlain “one of the best people I’ve met in football” during a recent press conference, the player admitted he took extra motivation from the comments.
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“It was quite humbling and nice to hear, and it makes me even more determined to help them by helping some of the younger players and sharing my experiences,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said.
As for returning to the field in last weekend’s 3-0 Under-21 friendly win against Manchester United: “It was great. Great to have a few minutes and I feel good physically.”
Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images
After some time away from Arsenal, The Athletic also asked Oxlade-Chamberlain if he thought the club was now in a better position to win the biggest trophies than during his previous tenure.
“(It’s) the perfect environment,” insisted Oxlade-Chamberlain. “I can’t talk about the (first team) dressing room because I’m not part of it.
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“But from the structure I see, the way they carry themselves and the intensity they train with, they have everything you need to really be successful.”
Oxlade-Chamberlain is training with Arsenal as a free agent as he searches for a new club, having recently played for Turkish club Besiktas. He terminated his contract in August, allowing him to join a new club even after the transfer window closed.
The player has since received offers from across Europe, but is keen to stay in England with his wife, son and their second child on the way.