Celtic signs Oxlade-Chamberlain

Celtic have strengthened their midfield options by securing English international Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on a deal that runs through the remainder of the season, the Scottish champions confirmed on Saturday.

The 30-year-old arrived as a free agent after his departure from Turkish side Besiktas at the close of last term and has agreed to an initial contract that includes the possibility of an additional 12 months.

A product of Southampton’s famed academy, Oxlade-Chamberlain first caught the eye during a productive spell at Arsenal, where he enjoyed the most consistent football of his career. He later moved to Liverpool and collected a haul of major silverware, including the Premier League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Capped 35 times by England, the versatile midfielder becomes the club’s fifth acquisition since Martin O’Neill’s interim return to the dug-out. With leaders Hearts pulling clear at the top of the Premiership, Celtic hope the addition of Oxlade-Chamberlain will provide the impetus for a renewed title push.