Strong 'Core' Promises Successful Arsenal Future, Claims Ramsey

Aaron Ramsey believes Arsenal's young side are well placed to challenge for major honours this season and has backed the club's young cohorts to get stronger in the years to come.

Ramsey, 21 on Boxing Day, insists the club's long-term future is in good hands ahead of the Gunners' clash with Premier League leaders Manchester City.

A rejuvenated Arsenal will back themselves to get a result at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, following City's first defeat of the season.

Until Monday's 2-1 defeat at Chelsea, Roberto Mancini's side were the only unbeaten Premier League side and the visit of a buoyant Arsenal will provide another stern test of City's title credentials.

Arsene Wenger's side are unbeaten since the 2-1 reverse to Tottenham in October, a run stretching back eight matches that has seen Arsenal climb to fifth in the league.

And Arsenal midfielder Ramsey believes the Gunners' will only get stronger as the season progresses.

"There's plenty of young talent there and we have to bond even more and gel as a team throughout the years. Hopefully we'll make iT successful for many years," Ramsey told the Arsenal Player.

"It's important that you have that core, that you've been together for a few years and you understand each other.

"It'll only make us stronger because you realise what to do on the pitch."

Meanwhile, Francis Coquelin has refused to rule out a move to Lille but admits he is committed to winning a place in the Arsenal first-XI.

Coquelin, 20, has grown frustrated at the lack of first-team opportunities at the Emirates this season and reports in Tuesday's press had linked him with a return to his homeland.

The young Frenchman has started just six games for Arsenal this season, despite Jack Wilshire's injury, meaning Arsene Wenger's options in central midfield being depleted.

Coquelin revealed that he was flattered by the interest from Lille but insists he still wants to fight for his place in the Arsenal side.

"It is good that Lille want me and they are a great club. If an offer arrives we will see what happens but I would rather be focused on Arsenal as I think I can do good things here.

"I have learned a lot in training every day with great players and I have progressed this year. I think I have shown Wenger I have a chance. At 20, I think I can be useful to Arsenal."