Oxlade-Chamberlain reveals why he snubbed Chelsea for Liverpool

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has revealed he opted to join Liverpool over Chelsea in order to play under Jurgen Klopp.

The England international secured a club-record £40m move to Liverpool from Arsenal last month after entering the final 12 months of his existing deal.

Chelsea were the frontrunners to sign the versatile midfielder, but Oxlade-Chamberlain rejected Antonio Conte’s side in order to secure a move to Anfield.

The 24-year-old has now revealed the allure of playing under Klopp was the deciding factor in his decision to leave the Gunners for their Premier League rivals.

“Even as a neutral watching last season, you [could see] he’s [Klopp] a really interesting character and someone that seems very inspiring for people that aren’t even involved in the club,” he told Liverpool’s official website.

“Watching him, his passion and how much he cares about the game. The thing that stood out for me was his relationship with the players, how close he seems to bond with the players on and off the field.

“That’s massive and it’s definitely a big plus when you’re looking to progress, having that relationship with the manager; that definitely helps.

“And then obviously the way his teams play, that’s definitely inspirational for me and was one of the instrumental – if not the main reason – that I felt this place was definitely the place for me.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain was reportedly put off the idea of moving across London after talks with Antonio Conte revealed he would provide competition with Victor Moses at right wing-back.

The England midfielder could make his Liverpool debut away to Manchester City on Saturday and he will be keen to carry over his good Arsenal form if given the chance at the Etihad.

In fact, Oxlade-Chamberlain has completed at least six more dribbles than any other Premier League player this season (17).