Former Arsenal star back training at club eight years after controversial £35m transfer

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Arsenal have welcomed back a former first-team star to maintain his fitness amid his search for a new club.

Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly back training with the Gunners amid his search for a new club, eight years after leaving in controversial fashion.

Sky Sports says the 32-year-old is training with Mikel Arteta's side in a bid to maintain his fitness ahead of his next move.

Oxlade-Chamberlain made 198 appearances for Arsenal after joining the club from Southampton back in 2011. He became a key member of Arsène Wenger's squad, helping to win three FA Cups and three Community Shields during his time in north London.

However, he'd leave in somewhat controversial fashion sealing a £35million move to Premier League rivals Liverpool, where he'd go on to win the Champions League, Premier League, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.

Taking to social media at the time of his departure, Oxlade-Chamberlain said: "After six years, three FA Cup wins and countless incredible memories, the time has come for me to move on from Arsenal.

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

"Thank you so much to you, the fans, who have 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 a part of the club for so many years, but I feel that this move is right for the next stage in my ongoing development."

Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is a free agent, is reportedly working alongside Arsenal's Under-21s to maintain his fitness having left Turkish club Besiktas in the summer.

Speaking about the news on Sky Sports, Tim Sherwood said: "It's brilliant for the young boys round the academy. You'd welcome him in.

"I did the same at Tottenham with Edgar Davids who came and trained with me for a couple of months. The experience that he'll give to those young players around, to see that, pick his brains and talk to him in the dressing room and on the pitch.

"It's incredible for them. I think it's a good move for Oxlade to get himself fit and also for the academy boys who are coming through in their numbers at Arsenal."

The report claims the former Gunners midfielder has turned down a number of offers from clubs in Europe with his preferred choice to stay in England.


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