Top 5 holding midfielders in the English Premier League

Victor Wanyama, Fernandinho
A battle between 2 of the top defensive midfielders in England.

#4 Francis Coquelin

Francis Coquelin, Arsenal
In an Arsenal side filled with flair, Coquelin adds some ruggedness to the lineup.

Over the past two seasons, the most important player in the Gunners starting eleven, with the most interceptions and tackles made, the Frenchman Francis Coquelin has been one of the most consistent performers in the entire league.

After a string of loan moves away from the club and a turbulent 23 months of not having made a start at his parent club, Coquelin in 2014 was recalled from his loan spell at Charlton Athletic to act as cover for the number of injuries Arsenal had at the time and quickly cemented his place in the starting eleven, going on to win praise from his manager claiming he could be a long-term option at the heart of the midfield for years to come.

Since his return the to the club, and his incredible change in form, skill and temperament, Coquelin went on to lift the FA Cup with Arsenal in 2015. Despite a couple of niggling injuries and minor setbacks the Frenchman is a key component to the Arsenal team and has been declared fit to play in the upcoming gameday post the international break.

With new additions such as Granit Xhaka and Elneny, an important rotational role should keep all players healthy and fit, bringing about a good competitive spirit in the Arsenal camp. The side are gunning for the elusive Premier League trophy and that will be by far the greatest achievement in the career of Francis Coquelin.

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