LIVERPOOL midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was prevented from playing more for Arsenal due to a clause in his contract.
After being left frustrated by a number of first team opportunities at the Emirates, the 26-year-old joined Jurgen Klopp’s side in 2017 for £35million.
Arsenal reportedly had to pay Southampton £10,000 every time Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain played more than 20 minutesCredit: EPA
Deployed as a full-back in his last full season at the Gunners, Chamberlain jumped ship to Anfield as he looked to cement a central midfield role in Merseyside.
He even featured against Liverpool during a 4-0 defeat last campaign, before penning a five-year deal with the Reds just four days later.
Arsene Wenger often used Chamberlain as an impact player towards the end of matches, and Alan Gernon has lifted the lid on the reason in his book, The Transfer Market: The Inside Stories.
He writes: “Following Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s move to Arsenal in 2011, Gunners fans became increasingly frustrated with the midfielder’s lack of playing time.
Chamberlain, 26, is recovering from a serious knee injury he picked up in April against RomaCredit: PA:Press Association
Chamberlain was often a substitute under Arsene Wenger at the EmiratesCredit: PA:Press Association
“He was predominantly used as a substitute, often around the 71-minute mark.
“After his contract details emerged, it all became clear: Arsenal were obliged to pay Southampton £10,000 every time he played 20 minutes or more.”
Of his 132 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, Chamberlain came on as a sub a whopping 64 times.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk