Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put through paces in first Liverpool training session

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain arrives for his first day's training at Melwood Credit: Getty Images

Monday was the first day of school for many, but Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had to wait until Thursday to report for duty at new club Liverpool. 

The deadline day signing from Arsenal looked in good spirits after an international break in which he started England victories over Malta and Slovakia

Chamberlain turned down higher contract offers elsewhere in favour of a move to Anfield, where he believes working with Jurgen Klopp can accelerate his development. 

The versatile midfielder was put through his paces by Liverpool's fitness coaches on his first day of training at the club's Melwood base, along with other teammates involved in international exertions. 

Aside from acquainting himself with his new boss and the rest of Liverpool's coaching staff, Oxlade-Chamberlain was kept company in the canteen by England teammate Jordan Henderson. 

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Oxlade-Chamberlain shares a bite to eat with England colleague Jordan Henderson Credit: Getty Images

After completing the deadline acquisition of Oxlade-Chamberlain, Klopp said:  "I am really, really happy we have got Alex signed. Since the last game I have been waiting and hoping we could make this transfer — and when I got the news he was ours it was fantastic. I remember the first time I saw him play live.

"It was at Dortmund in 2014 (in the Champions League) and he came on as a sub that day and made a big impact. He stood out immediately because of his pace and skills and his attitude in such a big game for a young player."

Liverpool captain Henderson added: “I think he can do both very well, he’s a fantastic player, he can adapt to each position, gives you something different on the wing.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Chamberlain's development in new surroundings will intrigue Arsenal fans Credit: Getty Images

“He’s very direct and powerful and in the midfield he’s clever enough to get on the ball and get on the half turn so, for me, he can play in either position.

“Of course I’m delighted he’s signed for Liverpool, but, at the end of the day, we are with England and our focus has got to be on the game on Monday. Then I’m sure we can start focusing on playing Man City and getting him into Melwood for his first session and stuff like that.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain could make his full debut for Liverpool at Manchester City on Saturday. Former club Arsenal host Bournemouth mired in uncertainty after two straight defeats. 

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