Arsene Wenger has taken to the club's personal website to address rumours surrounding the future of England international Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Speaking on Arsenal'sofficialsite, the manager stated:"He didn't say that [he will leave]. He said he will consider the situation at the end of the season. That is completely different.
I can understand, but on the other hand, you buy a young player at 17 years of age, you spend a lot of money, then you would like him to stay at the club".
Wenger added:I think his place is here. We like him. I personally rate him as a player and I hope that he will show that he can have a stable position in the team until the end of the season.
This season he has been similar to Walcott. He has not got rewarded yet. But he is in a similar position because he has worked really hard.�
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stats vs Theo Walcott this season.
Comment some comparisons you would like to see!#lfc #¦ pic.twitter.com/gBeNMOFMIK
Wenger was questioned aboutthe 23-year-old's future after the player stated during an interview withGoals on Sunday:"I'd be lying if I wasn't going to sit here and say that it has crossed my mind that I need more game time. As a footballer, you want to play every game. Me being myself, I'm not happy when I'm not playing."
Chamberlain has struggled for regular game time during his time at the London side. Despite being a fan favourite, he has struggled with injuries,andfound himself behind the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott who havethrivedthis season.
The player could feature in tonight's Champions League fixture againstLudogorets at the Emirates.
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain is NOT good enough for this Arsenal team
Ozil...has been anonymous
Sanchez is NOT suited for a central role
How can people say we have a great squad when the best option of the bench is Alex Oxlade Chamberlain