Francis Coquelin put in another stellar display against QPR on Wednesday night.

Playing wearing a protective mask after breaking his nose on Olivier Giroud’s head against Everton at the weekend, the Frenchman said he found it all a bit weird – especially as the mask only arrived on Wednesday and the game at Loftus Road was his first time wearing it.

Speaking to Arsenal.com, Le Coq said

“It was a bit weird with the first couple of headers, because you need to get [the feeling of the mask] out of the way.

“After that you can get on with the game – everything is fine. The game was the first time [I’d used the mask] as it just arrived today.

“It was a tough first half. They put a lot of pressure on us but we came back with better intentions in the second half and scored two great goals. We got the ball down more and played our football so it was easier.

“QPR is always a tough place to come to. The most important thing was to get the three points, especially with the other results. We did that and everyone is pleased with it.”

Growing with every appearance in an Arsenal shirt, Coquelin has been the answer to Arsenal’s defensive midfield woes.

Who would have thought that the man sent out on loan to Charlton as his contract at the club wound down could have such a profound effect on the team.?

It just goes to show that your dreams are never over, even when no-one else seems to believe in you.