Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin has revealed that he did not want to return to the club back in December.

The Frenchman is now a regular in the Gunners starting XI, but started the season on loan at Charlton Athletic.

The 24-year-old was recalled to the squad just before Christmas due to injury problems, and admitted to reporters that he was reluctant to head back.

He said: "I wasn't happy when I came back. I was playing regularly even if it was in the Championship, and obviously to be on the bench, I was a bit frustrated," reports ESPN.

"The manager said to me that I didn't look happy when I came back. I said 'yeah, it's true'. Then I started the West Ham game when I didn't expect it. It shows in football you really need to be ready at any time."

Coquelin will likely line up for Arsenal against West Bromwich Albion this afternoon.

Written by
Michael Hincks