Oxlade-Chamberlain happy to commit

04 September 2012 17:18

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is ready to commit his future to Arsenal.

The 19-year-old winger made a massive impression last term when his handful of first-team appearances proved enough to get him a place in Roy Hodgson's England squad for Euro 2012. And whilst speculation that he is on the verge of extending his Arsenal contract met with a non-committal response, the teenager made it clear he is happy to stay.

"I am here to play for England this week," he said ahead of the World Cup qualifier in Moldova. "That is the only thing I am concentrating on. But if Arsenal want to sit down and talk about that, it is really good because I am loving my time there. I really enjoy playing for them and am planning on being there for a while."

After successive goalless draws, Arsenal sprung into life on Sunday with a superb win at Liverpool.

With Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski both opening their accounts for the season, Arsene Wenger's men suddenly appear plausible challengers despite Robin van Persie's departure. And Oxlade-Chamberlain believes that will have a positive spin-off on his pursuit of an England place.

"Confidence is a massive thing in the game," he said.

"If the new signings bring that to the team, it can only help the rest of the boys.

"Also, it adds to the competition for places, which raises the level for everyone.

"If you bring that to internationals as well it can only be a good thing."

Source: PA