Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says Jurgen Klopp’s connection with his players and his “inspiring” character persuaded him to ditch Arsenal for Liverpool.
In his first interview as a Liverpool player, the 24-year-old Chamberlain ‘s comments suggest his own relationship with Arsene Wenger held back his progress.
The midfielder secured his switch to Anfield on transfer deadline day but only started training with the club on Wednesday owing to the international break.
Chamberlain says he is now looking forward to getting to work with his new manager.
“Even as a neutral watching him last season, you [could see] he’s a really interesting character and someone that seems very inspiring for people that aren’t even involved in the club,” Oxlade-Chamberlain told the Liverpool 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 could make his debut on Saturday when Liverpool face Manchester City and the midfielder is clearly keen to impress his “special” new boss.
“He’s definitely a manager that’s very animated on the side and you sort of feel like you get to know him without even knowing him when you listen to him in his press conferences – and then the insights I’ve had from the boys on him,” he added.
“First of all, what he’s achieved, you respect that straight away and how much he knows about the game, and then all his extra attributes – his relationships with the players and how he pushes you, encourages you and what he demands from you – that’s like a bonus. That’s what makes him special in my eyes.”
