Laurent Koscielny says Arsene Wenger has been a big inspiration during his seven years at Arsenal and made clear he has no reason to leave the Emirates.

The France international arrived from Lorient in 2010 as a relative unknown but has grown at Arsenal to become one of Europe’s best centre-backs.

Having signed a new deal in January, the 31-year-old told press ahead of yesterday’s friendly defeat to Chelsea that he’s very content with life as a Gunner.

“When I first got here, I didn’t think about how long I would stay at this club – but now I am starting my eighth season so I am very happy with this,” Koscielny said.

“I am happy in my life every day, not just the football but my life with my wife and kids in London. We enjoy it, that’s why I have stayed for a long time here.

“I have a long contract with Arsenal and I have [no reason] to leave the club. I am just here to enjoy my job and give everything for the team, and get the best results for the club. If i can do all of that, then I am happy.

“Arsene Wenger is a big [inspiration] for me. He bought me from France and has given me everything to help me play for Arsenal, and has helped me as a man too.

“I have a big [loyalty] to this club and to the boss too. I have stayed here for seven years and I have learnt a lot from him, so I am happy to be here with him and to fight for him because he is a great person.”

Assuming nothing changes in the next 12 months, you’d expect Koscielny to become the club’s next captain when Per Mertesacker retires to take up his role with the club’s Academy. It would certainly be a fitting reward for a superb career at Arsenal.