Why Arsenal have to do everything they can to keep hold of this prodigious youngster:

Big question marks were raised this summer when Arsene Wenger decided to sell Alex Song to Barcelona. Song was one of the club’s best players and the Gunners most defensive minded midfielder. Sending him packing (or, perhaps, more accurately: allowing him to leave) looked like it would leave a big gap in the centre of midfield. At the time, it looked like an error of judgement.

Arsene must have known, however, that Abou Diaby was close to full fitness for the first time in what feels like years. Indeed, Diaby seems to have jumped at the opportunity that’s been granted to him and will no doubt keep his place in the squad for some time.

But another key player in Arsene’s decision to sell Alex Song must have been Francis Coquelin. The 21-year-old defensive midfielder impressed fans and pundits alike last season when he was granted an opportunity. The trouble, I suppose, was finding a space for him in a pretty crowded midfield. As such, he’s primarily been used as a utility player, looking to fill in across the defence.

Whilst he did a good job, it’s clear that his future lies in the centre of midfield. He and Emmanuel Frimpong represent a kind of player that Arsenal tend to shy away from: the out-and-out defensive midfielder. What separates Frimpong from Coquelin, I’d argue, is the Frenchman’s technical ability. Not only can he put in a decent tackle, he can carve out a fine pass.

This in combination with his pace and physicality makes him a genuine asset for Arsenal. Yes, he’s young, but I believe that he’d excel in the Premier League. He’s got the build, the mentality and the ability. The player himself, is itching for an opportunity:

“In July, I met the coach and he told me I am a full member of the team and he relies on me. Looking at who we have signed, they have trust in me.

I am 21-years-old, I know I cannot be patient any more. This year is the right season to make a name for myself at Arsenal. I have given myself six months and then I will take stock. If I see it is blocked, I will go somewhere else. But for now I know I have the qualities to make a name for myself at Arsenal.”

He’s certainly a confident young lad, but his comments also act as a warning: play me, or lose me. My feeling is that the Gunners have a real talent on their hands and that he deserves game time. He’ll be key for Arsenal in the Cup competitions and lets hope he gets some opportunities in the Premier League too. The one thing Arsenal cannot afford to do is lose him.

What’s your take? Is Coquelin expendable or does he have a big future at the club?

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