Francis Coquelin believes that he can cement his place in the Arsenal side in the absence of the likes of Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey.

The Frenchman has made 15 appearances for Arsene Wenger's side this term, and drew widespread plaudits for his performance in the Gunners' 2-0 win against Manchester City at the Etihad back in January.

Coquelin's run in the side has coincided with injuries to other midfielders in the squad, but the 23-year-old has said that he is ready to take his chance.

Coquelin told BT Sport: "Sometimes you profit from injuries and that was what happened with me. I always had confidence in myself and belief in myself – I just need the chance.

"I got the chance because other people got injured and tried to grab it with both hands and do as well as I could."

Wenger's men host Liverpool on Saturday.

Written by
Paul Gorst