Laurent Koscielny

Laurent signed for Arsenal in the summer of 2010 after a meteoric rise through French football.

The centre back was voted Ligue 2 Player of the Year in 2009, moved to Lorient that summer and excelled in his only season in the French top flight before earning a transfer to Emirates Stadium.

Laurent is a quick-thinking centre back who reads the game exceptionally well and can turn defence into attack in an instant. He is comfortable in possession, loves to bring the ball out from the back and is already settling in fast alongside Thomas Vermaelen.

Although born in France, the uncapped defender would also qualify to represent the Poland national team as a result of his family roots.

• Name:

  Laurent Koscielny

• Born:

  September 10, 1985

• Tulle, France

• Position:

  Defender

• Squad Number:

  6

• Previous Club(s):

  En Avant Guingamp

• Tours

• Lorient

• Joined Arsenal

  July 07, 2010