Young midfielder Francis Coquelin admits he was surprised to be awarded a first-team opportunity at Arsenal so early in the season.
Frenchman hoping to stay in Wenger's plans
Young midfielder Francis Coquelin admits he was surprised to be awarded a first-team opportunity at Arsenal so early in the season.
The 20-year-old endured a baptism of fire when he made his first Premier League start in the Gunners' 8-2 thrashing by Manchester United at Old Trafford in August.
He then went on to produce a hard-working display in the 2-1 North London derby defeat by Tottenham at White Hart Lane, as well as featuring off the bench against Swansea.
Coquelin could be involved when Arsenal host Bolton in the Carling Cup on Tuesday night, having started against Shrewsbury in the tournament last time out.
Surprise
The Frenchman, who spent last season on loan at Lorient, is hoping manager Arsene Wenger continues to put his trust in him.
"I didn't expect to play that much at the beginning of the season," he told
Arsenal Player.
"I came back from the [Under-20] World Cup and then played straight away at Manchester United, which was a really hard game.
"He [Wenger] gave me another chance in the Carling Cup and I grabbed it. I think I have done quite well.
"Against Tottenham again it was a really tough game. I am a bit disappointed because we came out of those two games with two defeats - I think we could have done better at White Hart Lane.
"But overall I was pleased to play and hopefully I can get more games. I just try to do my job - tackle, keep the ball and play things easy."
Coquelin says he discussed the possibility of another loan move with Arsene Wenger on his return from the U20s World Cup in the summer, but the manager said he was needed at Emirates Stadium.
Needed
"When I got back from the World Cup the manager spoke to me about the injured players and told me he needed me at this time," he said.
"I thought I would have a chance to play this year as well so I thought I should stay and try and get a place in the first team. At the moment I can't really complain - I have been playing so I'm really pleased with that."
The youngster says he is grateful for the advice of the more experienced players in Wenger's squad, adding: "A lot of players talked to me like Alex Song, Robin van Persie and Mikel Arteta.
"They helped me a lot and just said to keep things simple."
