21-7-10: Francis Coquelin has joined Lorient on a season-long loan after signing a new contract at Arsenal. Coquelin joined the Gunners in 2008 from French side Laval and has worked his way through the club's youth and reserve set-ups. The 19-year-old made three first-team appearances last season and will spend the new campaign out on loan at Ligue 1 outfit Lorient. The season-long stint has been arranged in an attempt to give the midfielder a chance of playing regular first-team football. The new deal, described only as "long-term" by Arsenal, ensures the Frenchman is tied to the Emirates Stadium after impressing the club's management during his two years in North London. Coquelin made 12 appearances for the reserves last season and also featured as a starter in a League Cup clash against West Brom and an FA Cup date with Stoke. The French Under-19 international, who can also play in defence, made his other appearance as a substitute in a League Cup triumph over Liverpool.