The versatile Francis Coquelin, who began his playing career at AS Laval Bourny, caught the eye of Arsenal scouts during his time at Stade Lavallois, whom he joined in 2005.

In 2008, the Gunners swooped for the Frenchman, aged 17 at the time, and he soon made an impression as he helped the club's youth side lift the Premier Academy League and FA Youth Cup in 2009.

His stock continued to rise in 2010 as he claimed glory with France at the European Under-19 Football Championship. Following the tournament, the decision was made to send him on a season-long loan to Lorient.

Coquelin made 24 Ligue 1 appearances for Lorient, scoring once, and returned to Arsenal in the summer of 2011 better for experience and with a first-team role in his sights.

In all competitions during the 2011-12 season, he featured 17 times for the Gunners and in a 2-1 loss to North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur he was awarded the Man of the Match prize by the club's supporters.

Amid fierce competition for places, Coquelin has continued to push for regular football at Emirates Stadium. Indeed, manager Arsene Wenger's decision not to sign a high-profile midfielder in the summer of 2012 demonstrated a faith in the Frenchman.

In January 2012, he signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal.

Strengths: Coquelin is swift across the turf and boasts excellent stamina. He will strive until the very last of the 90 minutes.

Weaknesses: He is tactically naive, meaning he is sometimes caught out of position. With age, this should improve.

Career high: Making his competitive first-team debut for Arsenal in a 6-0 win over Sheffield United in 2008.

Career low: Being on the receiving end of Manchester United's infamous 8-2 spanking of Arsenal in the 2011-12 season.

Style: Strong in the challenge, Coquelin a box-to-box player. He is a versatile performer, capable of playing at full-back as well as central midfield.

Quotes: "The more I have played here, the stronger I have become. I am very happy with my progress and I hope there is even more to come." - Francis Coquelin in February 2011.

Trivia: Arsenal fans affectionately refer to him as 'Le Coq'.