Oxlade-Chamberlain on Celtic Park atmosphere: I thrive in this pressure cooker

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has stated that the intense pressure and the environment of the Celtic home ground act as the perfect challenge he needs to reach new heights. After joining the Scottish giants in February and contributing to a domestic double, the 32-year-old midfielder is now preparing for his first full season in Glasgow.

Despite his background with Arsenal and Liverpool, the player admits his hunger for success is only growing. Speaking ahead of the Premiership opener against Dundee this Monday, he highlighted how the club's high standards keep him sharp:

"I've been lucky enough to play in teams where there is an expectation to win, but it's very difficult to win because of the competition. I thrive in this 'pressure cooker'. That's the mentality here. I need that to get the best out of myself at this stage of my career." Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Beyond the club's mentality, the midfielder is inspired by his teammates, highlighting the work ethic of both the younger players and established leaders like Callum McGregor and James Forrest. For Oxlade-Chamberlain, this pre-season is particularly significant as it is his first full preparation period in three years, leaving him feeling physically ready to sustain the demands of the upcoming campaign.