Calum Chambers joined Middlesbrough on a season-long loan from Arsenal.

Tottenham’s Vincent Janssen in action with Middlesbrough’s Calum Chambers

Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers says he opted to join newly-promoted Middlesbrough as he felt the Teeside club was the best place for him to continue his development, he told the club’s official website.

The England international defender was heavily sought-after this past summer after Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hinted that a loan move and regular first-team football would be in his best interests.

West Ham United, Hull City and Watford were among a number of clubs eyeing a loan deal for Chambers during the summer (the Daily Mail), yet he chose Boro late in the transfer window.

Tottenham’s Vincent Janssen in action with Middlesbrough’s Calum Chambers

Speaking on his reason for moving to the Riverside Stadium, the Gunners ace explained how manager Aitor Karanka and the team were a big influence on his decision.

“I came here because of the manager, the team and the club. I felt like it was the best place to come and develop myself as a player,” he told Boro’s official website.

“I knew Gibbo from England and Gaston Ramirez from Southampton. But all the boys have been really helpful, showing me the ropes and around Boro.”

“The intensity of the training and the detail we go into on the opposition is amazing. To go into games with that information is very good.”

Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka before the match

Boro made a number of signings during the summer as Karanka looked to bolster his squad ahead of a difficult Premier League campaign, with Chambers one of four defensive recruits.

The Teesside club have picked up five points from their opening six matches, and head in to this weekend’s clash with struggling West Ham United having lost their last three outings.

Chambers, 21, made his debut for Boro in the 2-1 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, playing the full 90 minutes at centre-back alongside Ben Gibson.





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