Francis Coquelin 'did not want Arsenal return'

Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin has revealed that he did not want to return to the club back in December.

The Frenchman is now a regular in the Gunners starting XI, but started the season on loan at Charlton Athletic.

The 24-year-old was recalled to the squad just before Christmas due to injury problems, and admitted to reporters that he was reluctant to head back.

He said: "I wasn't happy when I came back. I was playing regularly even if it was in the Championship, and obviously to be on the bench, I was a bit frustrated," reports ESPN.

"The manager said to me that I didn't look happy when I came back. I said 'yeah, it's true'. Then I started the West Ham game when I didn't expect it. It shows in football you really need to be ready at any time."

Coquelin will likely line up for Arsenal against West Bromwich Albion this afternoon.