Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny believes that it is important for his side to get off to a strong start in the Champions League group stages this week.

The Gunners travel to the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday to face Ligue 1 outfit Marseille in their first match in Group F, which will also see them face Borussia Dortmund and Napoli.

While he admits that it will be a tough game, Koscielny is eager for the North London outfit to make an immediate impact in the first match.

"If we can get a good result at Marseille, it sets us up well, as we have two home matches after this," Koscielny told Arsenal's official website.

"The most important thing in the Champions League is to start well. It will be hard to win at Marseille, but we have the quality to do it.

"We are experienced in the Champions League and are all looking forward to this challenge again."

Arsenal currently sit top of the Premier League.