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Alexandre Lacazette stressed the importance of Laurent Koscielny for Arsenal before the final of the Europa League Wednesday against Chelsea.
The 33-year-old, the most influential Gunners defender since his return in December from a long-term Achilles injury, which required surgery and made him miss France's World Cup victory .
In the midst of fears surrounding the future of the skipper of Arsenal, he has instead provided leadership and stability to a team long vulnerable defense.
Wednesday's match will determine not only whether Arsenal will win a major trophy this season, but also whether he will play in the UEFA Champions League or not.
And while Arsenal is preparing for the threats of Eden Hazard, Pedro and others, Lacazette knows how valuable Koscielny will be.
Lacazette commented his compatriot: "He worked all summer to return quickly and on his return, he played four consecutive games after a big injury. It's really difficult.
Get this preparation complete
If you were @UnaiEmery_what would be your starting eleven for the #UEL last be? ? pic.twitter.com/uvUOvyP53f
– Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) May 26, 2019
"He helped us all season to be better in defense. We all have a great respect for Laurent. A great respect.
"I know that the presence of the Champions League in your stadium is a very good atmosphere. So I want to know in the UAE. We just have to win.
Despite his confidence in defense Koscielny, it is in the last third – where Lacazette combines so effectively with fellow striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – that Arsenal is among the top teams in Europe.
In comparison, Chelsea is still waiting for the attacker on loan Gonzalo Higuain to make a good impression.
Lacazette hopes to be alongside Aubameyang on Wednesday, but he agrees that this is not a guarantee.
"Playing with Auba is always a pleasure for me," he said. "The coach (Unai Emery) knows that we want to play together, but he must of course choose and we must respect them.
"Even when I'm not playing, the team is good and we play well. So I do not think it's just because of Auba and me.
"I am not jealous of anyone. I just want to win trophies, Auba too. Of course, it is always better to play together, but when you play and the rest stays on the bench, just help the team. "
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