Aaron Ramsey says Francis Coquelin keeps the Arsenal midfield “ticking over”.

The 23-year-old has won more tackles than any player in the Premier League since his return from a loan spell at Charlton in December.

His defensive attributes have allowed his more attack-minded team-mates to go forward, and Ramsey says this has been to the benefit of the whole team.

"It is quite comforting knowing that one of the midfielders is behind you in position, thinking more defensively" Aaron Ramsey

“He’s been really good,” the Wales international told Arsenal Player. “He’s very aggressive and doesn’t give the opposition much time on the ball, and that’s why he wins so many tackles. Then he wins the ball and makes us tick over.

“It’s been really good to see his development this year, he’s had a superb couple of months now so hopefully he can continue that.

“It is quite comforting knowing that one of the midfielders is behind you in position, thinking more defensively. It is something that he does really well.”

Ramsey says that competition for places in the midfield is the fiercest it has been in his time at the club, and it's helping get the best out of the squad.

“There are a number of players who are more than capable of putting in good performances in the middle and we have shown that with the number of different combinations we’ve had this season,” he said.

“There’s definitely a fight for our places and everyone is keeping each other on their toes - it’s good that we have that strength in depth now.”

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