Francis Coquelin says signing a new deal at Arsenal was an easy decision and shows the “magic of football”.

The French midfielder has agreed a new long-term deal after establishing himself since his return from a loan spell at Charlton Athletic.

The 23-year-old is delighted to commit his future to the club and says he now wants to concentrate on cementing his place in the team.

"This is what is magic about football: one day you are unknown and the next day you are a bit bigger" Francis Coquelin

“I’m really pleased, I’ve been here since 2008 so it feels like a second home for me,” Coquelin told Arsenal Player. “It wasn’t really a tough decision, I have been here long enough and I know everyone here.

“Everyone makes me feel good every day, and hopefully there will be more good years to come as well.

“This is what is magic about football: one day you are unknown and the next day you are a bit bigger. I think the most important thing is to stay the same as I have been doing for the last few years.

“If I stay the same I am not worried, I know I can help the team and hopefully I can do that in the coming years.”

Coquelin is one of a number of young players to sign new contracts recently, and he says it points to a bright future.

“It is a good thing to try and keep the players who have been there for a long time,” he said. “Everyone’s been here for a long time and we all know each other so we help everyone on the pitch and off the pitch.

“It’s easier to tell someone off when you’ve known him for years than someone who’s just got in the team, and I think that’s why at the moment everything’s going well.”