Nicosia Gooner
09-08-2012, 08:29 PM
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/8064812
Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin hoping to impress but could consider move
Last Updated: September 8, 2012 9:00pm
Francis Coquelin is determined to make a name for himself at Arsenal, but admitted he may look to move on in January if he is not featuring in the first-team.
The France Under-21 international was rewarded with a new long-term contract at Emirates Stadium at the start of the year and made 17 appearances for the Gunners last term.
He spent the previous campaign out on loan with Lorient and was linked with a summer back to his homeland with the Ligue 1 outfit, while Everton, QPR and Aston Villa were all credited with an interest in his services.
The 21-year-old held talks with manager Arsene Wenger prior to the new season where he was assured he was part of the manager's plans for the new campaign.
Coquelin hoped the departure of Alex Song would see further opportunities come his way and is now looking to dislodge the star trio of Abou Diaby, Mikel Arteta or Santi Cazorla from the line-up.
He told L'Equipe: "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.
"Alex Song left for Barcelona and they didn't (sign) another defensive midfielder.
"When I didn't play in the first three matches it made me think about it. But I know I will get an opportunity and I will seize it.
"Arteta, Diaby and Cazorla are great players, who have more experience than me. But during training sessions every morning I am not behind them.
"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."
Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin hoping to impress but could consider move
Last Updated: September 8, 2012 9:00pm
Francis Coquelin is determined to make a name for himself at Arsenal, but admitted he may look to move on in January if he is not featuring in the first-team.
The France Under-21 international was rewarded with a new long-term contract at Emirates Stadium at the start of the year and made 17 appearances for the Gunners last term.
He spent the previous campaign out on loan with Lorient and was linked with a summer back to his homeland with the Ligue 1 outfit, while Everton, QPR and Aston Villa were all credited with an interest in his services.
The 21-year-old held talks with manager Arsene Wenger prior to the new season where he was assured he was part of the manager's plans for the new campaign.
Coquelin hoped the departure of Alex Song would see further opportunities come his way and is now looking to dislodge the star trio of Abou Diaby, Mikel Arteta or Santi Cazorla from the line-up.
He told L'Equipe: "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.
"Alex Song left for Barcelona and they didn't (sign) another defensive midfielder.
"When I didn't play in the first three matches it made me think about it. But I know I will get an opportunity and I will seize it.
"Arteta, Diaby and Cazorla are great players, who have more experience than me. But during training sessions every morning I am not behind them.
"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."