Arsenal centre-back Per Mertesacker has revealed that he was elated to have Laurent Koscielny back alongside him at the heart of his side's defence.

The 29-year-old was ruled out of action for almost two months through injury, but returned for Arsene Wenger's men to guide his side to two clean sheets against West Bromwich Albion and Southampton.

Mertesacker believes that his understanding with the Frenchman at the back helps the Gunners become a much more resilient side.

"It's great to have him back," Mertesacker told the club's official website. "There's a good partnership between us but also the team trusts him because he's a great centre-back and a great lad.

"We look good at the moment but we have to continue doing well, especially in practising and training. We compliment each other really well and you can see that, especially last season where we kept a lot of clean sheets.

"We have different qualities and that fits really well together. We try to keep that and remind ourselves there is still something to improve but there's a good partnership and that's good for the core of the team. We think that can help everyone."

Arsenal face Stoke City in their Premier League clash later today.