After two successful seasons at Arsenal, Laurent Koscielny was rewarded with a new long-term contract. His most notable contribution has been scoring the winning goal against West Bromwich Albionon the final day of last season, thus securing Champions League qualification. Koscielnyhas always been the consummate professional &has gained the plaudits of Arsenal?s manager, Arsene Wenger.
On resigning (July 2012), an ecstatic Arsene Wenger said "Laurent has been outstanding for us over the last two seasons. When you consider that until 2009 he was playing in Ligue 2 in France and that he is now performing at the very top level in the Premier League and for his country, the development that he has shown has been absolutely exceptional.?
Since then, Koscielny has been confined to the bench &has been replaced by teammate Per Mertesacker. His absence is evident as Arsenal?s quick passing & fluent game (which starts from the back)has disappeared. Captain (Thomas Vermaelen) has ceased making forward runs as without Koscielny Arsenal?s defence is weakened. In Koscielny, Arsenal have a no-nonsense defender with a never say die attitude.
Arsenal with Koscielny (2012-2013)
PLD: 13
WIN: 6
DRW: 5
LOS: 2
Arsenal with Mertesacker(2012-2013)
PLD: 21
WIN: 8
DRW: 7
LOS: 5
Source: DSG
Source: DSG