Calum Chambers says his season-long loan to Fulham is all about showing what he can do, and hopefully getting back into the England squad as well.

Chambers surprised most Arsenal fans by deciding to move on loan towards the end of the transfer window. He’d just signed a new contract to stay with the Gunners long term, and seemed to be in Unai Emery’s plans for the season. Then he left, without anyone joining as a replacement.

The player himself explained his decision to the official Fulham website, in terms of what he wants from the season.

“For me, first off, I want to do well for Fulham,” he said. “I want to come here and show everyone what I can do, and then obviously the long-term goal is to get back in the England squad as well.

“I’ve played quite a few [Premier League] games now, and I want to come here and show the experience I’ve gained in the past.”

Another important aspect of the move was the style of play Fulham currently utilise. Obviously the closer the playing style is to Arsenal’s, the more likely it is that the loan will help a player prepare for their parent club’s first team. Chambers thinks Fulham fit the bill perfectly.

“Everyone can see that Fulham’s a club that likes to play football, play football from the back, through the lines,” he said. “That’s the style of football I like to play as well, so I think it fits me and suits the way I play.

“I watched a lot of Fulham last season, I really like the way they play football, there’s a good manager, it’s a great club, so I’m really excited for the season ahead.”

‘There are no presents’

Meanwhile, Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic is insisting his new signings, Chambers included, can’t take anything for granted in terms of game time this season.

“I’m not Santa Claus – there are no presents,” the manager insisted. “I don’t need to make anybody happy. This is not sentimental, it’s about being professional.”

We’ll have to wait and see whether Chambers can nail down a spot in the starting eleven, but as he’s just one of 12 new signings for The Cottagers, he has his work cut out for him.