ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN is a man on a mission after signing a one-year extension on his Celtic contract.
The former Arsenal, Liverpool and England international midfielder sealed his return to Parkhead at the weekend, as CQN reported.
Oxlade-Chamberlain admitted it was “a no-brainer” to sign again for the champions after originally joining as a free agent in February after his release from Turkish outfit Besiktas.
The 32-year-old performer was an immediate hit with the fans when he swept in a stoppage-time winner against Livingston in the east end of Glasgow four days after his arrival.
PICK IT OUT…Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain curls in Celtic’s stoppage-time winner against Livingston at Parkhead on February 11 – only four days after his arrival.
And the player staged an action replay in April when he hit the points-clincher against St Mirren at the same venue as Martin O’Neill’s side went on to claim their fifth successive title in the most dramatic of circumstances.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s strikes were crucial as Celtic overcame Hearts 3-1 on the last day of the Premiership season to claim the crown by two points.
The experienced operator caught up with his team-mates at their training camp in Portugal yesterday before taking the time to discuss the move.
He said: “I was delighted we could get it done. I kept myself fit, kept plugging away and hoped that I could get myself back up north for some lovely weather with you lot!
“I’m excited to come in at the start of this season and to feel like I’ve got a proper pre-season with the boys. So, yeah, I’m looking forward to getting going.
HAMPDEN HALLELUJAH…Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates Celtic Scottish Cup triumph.
“I really like the changing room, the lads, the manager, the coaching staff. I really enjoyed the challenge the whole time.
“It was a no-brainer for me, just with the fans and how special it was to see that and feel that and be a part of that.”
Oxlade-Chamberlain, speaking to Celtic Player, added: “The fact that I got to experience last season, I think that helps me massively going into this year because I know a lot of what the manager, Shaun and the coaching staff want from us.
“I definitely hope that, for myself, and for us as a group, we have a really good season and we’re able to have many more special nights and moments.
“I’ll just be looking to work hard and be ready whenever the team needs me to add what I can and contribute in a good way.”
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