Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has suggested that Arsenal could win the Premier League this season if Francis Coquelin reproduces his form of last term.
The defensive midfielder broke into the side midway through last season after returning from a loan spell at Charlton Athletic and went on to become a regular for the Gunners.
Hamann has said that Coquelin's influence in the team will be crucial to Arsenal's success.
"He made a huge difference to them, results improved dramatically [when he came into the side], and he gave them that protection in front of the back four," Hamann told talkSPORT.
"He had a massive influence and if he can repeat what he did last season I think they are set fair. With the likes of [Aaron] Ramsey and [Jack] Wilshere going forward they've got so much quality and you know they are always going to score goals, so defensively was always the problem with Arsenal.
"Coquelin deserves a big mention. Can he do it again? It remains to be seen but, if he does, they will be a lot closer come the end of the season. I expect them to be fewer than five or six points off the Premier League winners, and I think they've got a fighting chance to win it."
Coquelin made 22 Premier League appearances for Arsenal last term.
Steven Toplis
