Celtic confirmed the signing of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ahead of Saturday’s Scottish Cup tie against Dundee, bringing an end to days of speculation around the experienced midfielder’s future.
The 32-year-old was in Glasgow on Saturday morning to complete the move and could even be in attendance at Celtic Park for the cup clash, having finalised his switch just hours before kick-off.
Martin O’Neill confirmed that he had spoken to Joe Hart prior to the deal, stressing that Hart was not acting on behalf of the club but had offered insight into the environment Oxlade-Chamberlain would be joining.
However, the midfielder has since revealed that Hart was not the only familiar voice involved in the decision. Oxlade-Chamberlain also held conversations with former teammate Andy Robertson before agreeing to the move north of the border.
Celtic’s newest signing, who was brought out onto the pitch before the 2-1 over Dundee said: “The manager must have heard I didn’t have a job! I’m best mates with Andy Robertson, as well, so I didn’t need much convincing.” [Celtic TV]
Robertson remains a player with strong Celtic ties and has never hidden his support for the club. Although the Liverpool full-back is approaching the final months of his contract, with speculation linking him to a possible move to Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the window, he remains at Liverpool after that switch failed to materialise.
Those Celtic connections proved influential. Oxlade-Chamberlain made clear that hearing directly from Robertson, who knows both the demands of elite football and the unique pressures that come with playing in Glasgow, helped him feel comfortable about the decision.
The move brings a wealth of experience into the Celtic dressing room at a key stage of the season, with Oxlade-Chamberlain eager to make an impact both on and off the pitch. With backing from trusted former teammates and the full support of the manager, Celtic will hope the midfielder can quickly settle and play a meaningful role in the months ahead.
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