Coquelin hails impact and influence of Pires

Matt Stead

Francis Coquelin has thanked Arsenal club legend and countryman Robert Pires for the impact he has had on his career.

Coquelin has become a regular fixture in the Arsenal line-up since returning from a loan at Charlton amid an injury crisis at the Emirates last season.

The combative Frenchman has since been praised for his performances as a defensive midfielder, and earned the plaudits for another excellent game in the 3-0 victory over Manchester United at the weekend.

The 25-year-old has praised club legend Pires for the “tips and advice” he has given to him throughout his career, with Pires still regularly training with the club’s players.

“I have good people around me; Robert Pires gives me tips and advice,” the midfielder said.

“He is a French player and as a young kid I was watching him play for France a lot. It’s always nice to get tips from someone like that.

“He’s quite honest and if you haven’t played well he’s not going to hide it from you.”