Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: 'Arsenal key to England future'

Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain believes that his club are vital to the future of the England national team.

The 19-year-old has been called up to the Three Lions squad to face San Marino and Montenegro along with Theo Walcott, while Gunners star Jack Wilshere is out with injury.

Defensive duo Carl Jenkinson and Kieran Gibbs have also been on the radar of Roy Hodgson's side, and Oxlade-Chamberlain is adamant that Arsenal's English core will benefit their country.

"We are all growing up together, and in similar positions with playing for a club like Arsenal and for the international team," said Oxlade-Chamberlain. "It is good to have all that support around you, and mates too, which is the most important thing in football, the relationships with your teammates.

"It makes it a bit more special to be able to go away with England and be with players from your club team.

"It will stand us in good stead for our club and also for England, because the more you play with your teammates, growing up with them, you start to know them inside out."

All five players have signed new deals with Arsenal this season.