Arsenal star Per Mertesacker has lauded team-mate Laurent Koscielny and says it has been great to watch the progress of the Frenchman at the Emirates Stadium.

Koscielny was recently awarded a new contract after he became a crucial member of Arsene Wenger’s squad over the years and continued putting in great performances.




The defender has captained the Gunners this season and has managed to keep his side in the top four of the Premier League table for the majority of the campaign thus far.

Mertesacker, who has played with the centre-back for Arsenal in the past, said that he is impressed with Koscielny’s growth over the years and added that he has all the ingredients that make a top defender.
 


“I’ve worked closely with Laurent ever since I arrived here and it’s been great to witness his continued progression”, Mertesacker told the matchday programme.  

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“He’s really developed his skills in so many areas – his defending, his communication and how he’s handled becoming a key player for this club.

“It’s an absolute joy to watch him play because he has all the ingredients to be a top defender, which he is”, added the 32-year-old.

Mertesacker, who has remained sidelined after picking up an injury last year in July, also extended his stay at the Emirates Stadium by a year on Thursday.

Arsenal are currently fourth in the Premier League table and are eight points behind league leaders Chelsea.