TheSportsCampus

Amidst the familiar situation of player exodus that Arsenal faces every year during the transfer window, one bright spot has finally emerged for the Gunners' fans this season, with centre back Laurent Koscielny agreeing to sign a new long term contract with the club according to reports on Arsenal's official website.

"The development Laurent has shown has been absolutely exceptional," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, "Laurent is a top-class player and I am very pleased he has decided to commit his future to the club."

This announcement comes at a crucial time for the Gunners, who are facing a crisis of sorts, with captain Robin van Persie not agreeing to sign a new contract, and reports that Theo Walcott will follow the Dutch striker's footsteps. While Walcott has quashed those rumours earlier today, nothing beats seeing drying ink next to a player's signatue.

With Laurent Koscielny having been an exemplary servant to the London club over the last two years, the Gunners will be mighty relieved that he has chosen to put his faith in Arsenal and declared his intention to win things here. At 26 years of age, Koscielny is one of the more experienced members of the team and more importantly, he has been a constant performer for the club. After a shaky start to his Arsenal career the Frenchman has become an important cog in Arsene Wenger's plans, with his enthusiasm on the pitch having made him a fan favourite.

Koscielny has the most number of appearances for Arsenal in the past two years, which speaks volumes about how important it was to tie him down to a new contract, and it seems Arsene Wenger is a relieved man, at least in some respects.