Arsenal star Francis Coquelin claims he can solve holding midfield issue for Arsene Wenger

Arsenal star Francis Coquelin has appealed to manager Arsene Wenger to resist pursuing a defensive midfield player during future transfer windows after claiming he is ready to become the club's primary holding player.

Since being recalled from a loan spell at Championship club Charlton Athletic, Coquelin has become a key component of the Gunners' midfield as the north London club have surged into the Premier League top four.

Coquelin's performances, particularly in the win at champions Manchester City, has enhanced his reputation at Arsenal, a career that appeared destined for failure after loan spells at Lorient, SC Freiburg and Charlton across five season.

With currently injured pair Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta providing inadequate back-up in defensive midfield, behind Arsenal wealth of attacking players, the club have consistently been urged to fill the position in previous transfer windows.

But in Coquelin, Arsenal appear to have a player ready-made for the role and the former France Under-21 international is prepared to sacrifice himself for the good of the team.

"If I can give the team a good balance — because we've got quite a few players going forward — hopefully we can get back to keeping clean sheets soon," the 23-year-old said after the 2-1 win at Leicester City.

"We had a few disappointing results, for example at Southampton and Tottenham, but overall we've had good performances.

"The most important thing is for us to get into the top four next season. It's going to be hard for us to win the title as Chelsea are quite far ahead. If we stay consistent and keep winning games, you never know what can happen."

He added: "I always had confidence in myself, so I knew I could do big things.

"Arsenal are a big club with quality players so when you get a chance you have to take it and show what you can do. It took a bit of time for me but in the end I got my chance and I am just trying to do my best for the team."