How important will Arsenal captain Laurent Koscielny be this season after committing his future?

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Although the record arrival of Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon a fortnight ago is more than enough to excite Arsenal fans this summer window, the good news kept coming out of the Emirates this week.

Laurent Koscielny, current Arsenal captain and one of the stand-out performers of an underwhelming season last year, has pledged his future to the club amidst recent speculation of a shock exit.

The Daily Mail had claimed a few months ago that the 31-year-old was pining for a return to his native France, following reports published by Le Figaro in his native country. These suggested Marseille were knocking at the Gunners’ door.

Nonetheless, Koscielny has now dispelled the rumours. Speaking in an interview for Arsenal’s official website, he said:

“When I first got here, I didn’t think about how long I would stay at this club – but now I am starting my eighth season so I am very happy with this.

 “I have a long contract with Arsenal and I have [no reason] to leave the club. I am just here to enjoy my job and give everything for the team, and get the best results for the club.

 “I have a big [loyalty] to this club and to the boss. I’ve stayed here for seven years and learnt a lot from him, so I’m happy to be here with him and to fight for him because he’s a great person.”

This will come as a massive relief to everyone associated with the Gunners, with the French international undeniably a huge part of Arsenal’s plans heading forward and for the upcoming year.

Since arriving from Ligue 1 side Lorient back in 2010 he has only grown from strength to strength over in north London, becoming the figure of consistency and leadership in the heart of the defence.

Last season alone, playing alongside the personnel of Rob Holding, Nacho Monreal and Shkodran Mustafi as Wenger experimented with his defensive formations, he averaged more defensive actions per match than any of his teammates (10), highlighting just how solid and disciplined he is.

Across 33 Premier League appearances he made 200 clearances and 22 blocks, but it is the 92 interceptions that he made that shows how confident he has become in anticipating situations.

At 31 years of age, there may not be that many seasons right at the top left in his locker, but committing his future to the Emirates can only benefit the young players now coming through, such as Holding, as his experience – both domestically and internationally – can help their education.

It really could be the most exciting summer in recent history for Arsenal, even more so if they keep hold of both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil. Expect Koscielny to spearhead from defence once again.