Francis Coquelin has given credit to Robert Pires for his rebirth as a player now absolutely crucial to this Arsenal side.

The midfielder looked to be on his way out last season but injuries to pretty much everyone saw him recalled from loan at Charlton, and he’s taken his chance with aplomb.

And with Pires a training ground regular – although not yet in any official capacity as far as we know – Coquelin has learned from his countryman whose advice has proved invaluable.

“I have good people around me,” he said. “Robert Pires gives me tips and advice. He is a French player and as a young kid I was watching him play for France a lot.

“It’s always nice to get tips from someone like that. He’s quite honest and if you haven’t played well he’s not going to hide it from you.”

It’s interesting that in terms of style the two are almost opposites. Coquelin a deep-lying, snarling, energetic destroyer; Pires the elegant, dreamy poacher and provider, but it seems to be working out pretty well.

Also, this is quite fun.