New Liverpool signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has spoken for the first time since sealing a £40m move from Arsenal.

The 24-year-old rejected the chance to sign with the Premier League champions Chelsea, signing a five-year deal at Anfield.

And Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is on international duty with England, has explained why he felt he had to leave the Gunners.

"After six years, three FA Cups and countless incredible memories, the time has come for me to move on from Arsenal," Chamberlain wrote in a statement.

Liverpool Unveil New Signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (
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Liverpool FC/Getty Images)
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in action against Liverpool (
Image:
David Price)

"I want to publicly thank Arsene, the coaching and club staff and my amazing team-mates for all of the incredible opportunities I have been given.

"Thank you so much to you, the fans, who always had my back - I honestly couldn't be more grateful. The club, and my time here, will always mean a massive amount to me.

"I know my choice might come as a surprise to many, and the decision to leave was tough after being part of the club for so many years, but I feel that this move is right for the next stage of my ongoing development."

Oxlade-Chamberlain is all smiles as he signs his contract (
Image:
Liverpool FC/Twitter)
Oxlade-Chamberlain enjoys himself during England training on Tuesday (
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REX/Shutterstock)

The player underwent a medical on Wednesday evening at St George's Park and will now focus on England duty ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Malta.

“I’m currently away with England, so I’m at St George’s Park," said Chamberlain.

"Firstly, I’m delighted to have signed for Liverpool and a big thank-you to everyone here at the FA that has made this possible, using the facilities.

"It has been a massive help.

“I’m not going to say too much today; I’m here with England and we’ve got two big games coming up, so I want to focus on them.

"But I can’t wait to get to Melwood and you’ll hear first from me on LFCTV.”

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