Francis Coquelin says combination with Santi Cazorla has strengthened Arsenal midfield

Francis Coquelin believes the flourishing relationship between him and Santi Cazorla is down to the chemistry between the two players.

The two have started together in most of Arsenal's games in the last eight months, which also coincided with them accruing the most points in the league during the period. Cazorla has been moved back from a more attacking role. Now he has the task of a deep lying playmaker from the base of midfield, where he can orchestrate the play.

Coquelin, on the other hand, looks to act the destroyer in midfield, breaking up opposition attacks and allowing Arsenal's payers with more flair to move forward. The Frenchman has been a revelation since coming back from his loan spell at Charlton and has established himself as an integral part of the team.

However, Coquelin insists that he has to contend with the increased competition in the squad, as Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere are also capable of playing through the centre. This has forced him to adjust his style should the manager decide to use them through the middle.

Ramsey has previously expressed his dissatisfaction at being used in the wings, but the midfielder revealed a few days back that he was happy with the new role that the manager had given him, where he is able to get into dangerous positions and create openings.

Speaking about Santi's ability, Coquelin told Arsenal's official website: "It is easy to play alongside Santi because he is such a great player.

"We had a good chemistry last season, but there are many great players at this club that we can all play with each other.

"That is the great thing about this squad; anyone can play and we can still get a result.

"Last season with Santi was something special because we got a lot of praise, but the most important thing is that no matter who plays, we can get the result," he added.