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Arsenal’s Oxlade-Chamberlain surprised by Wilshere’s move

Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates after Laurent Koscielny scores their first goal (REUTERS)
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Arsenal have a plethora of midfield options, and allowed Jack Wilshere to join Bournemouth on a season-long loan in the summer.

Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates after  Laurent Koscielny scores their first goalArsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Arsenal ace Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has admitted he was surprised to see team-mate Jack Wilshere leave for Bournemouth on a season-long loan, but hailed the move as a courageous one, as quoted by the Express.

Wilshere, 24, has struggled for game time at the Emirates in recent seasons, mostly down to a succession of serious injuries, and he will be hoping his time with the Cherries will enable him to showcase his true talent.

Oxlade Chamberlain discussed Wilshere’s move to the South-Coast and praised him for making what he called a ‘courageous’ move, as quoted by the Express:

Bournemouth's Jack WilshereBournemouth’s Jack Wilshere

“I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a surprise. I give him a lot of credit for having the courage and the fight to make something like that happen. He felt it was right for him and he went and did it and I have a lot of respect for that. I hope he comes back. He’s been the star boy of Arsenal. Fans love him. He’s an amazing talent and an integral part of the squad.”

Wilshere has failed to make much of an impact for the Cherries as yet, but it is still early days, and a primary target for him will be getting a string of games under his belt, and proving that he can actually play a full season without breaking down.

Bournemouth's Jack Wilshere in action with Watford's Valon BehramiBournemouth’s Jack Wilshere in action

Oxlade-Chamberlain has a lot to prove at Arsenal himself, after failing to reach the heights that many had predicted when he joined the Gunners from Southampton five years ago.

Now, at the age of 23, is the time where he must start performing on a consistent basis, and establish himself as a regular starter in Arsene Wenger’s first team.

Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates scoring their fourth goalArsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain celebrates