Published: 23 April, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

FRANCIS Coquelin says he wants to be the defensive midfielder the Arsenal fans are crying out for – and that he’s focused on proving his credentials on Sunday when “the best player in the Premier League” visits the Emirates Stadium. 

The Frenchman has excelled in the heart of the Gunners’ midfield since returning from a loan spell at Charlton in December, establishing himself as one of the first names manager Arsene Wenger adds to his team-sheet on match days. 

Coquelin faces arguably his biggest challenge yet this weekend when he tackles a Chelsea side boasting former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas and the heavily-tipped player-of-the-season Eden Hazard. 

“Eden Hazard is probably one of the best players in the league, maybe even the best this season. 

“It’s going to be a tough game but, like in every big game, you want to win,” said the 23-year-old. 

“Hazard and Cesc Fabregas are great players who can do such great things at any time in the day. You need to be focused the whole time and that’s what I’m going to try to do for the 90 minutes.” 

Coquelin’s role in the Arsenal team is similar to that of Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic and unsurprisingly he’s a big fan of the Serbian. 

“What he’s done is unbelievable,” he said. “At Chelsea he is one of the main men so credit to him, he’s had a great season and is a great player. 

“It’s always good to play against players like that. 

“It’s an important position and Matic has shown how important he is – that’s what I’m trying to do as well for Arsenal. The fans want a good defensive midfielder, they know it’s important for the team.”