SHKODRAN MUSTAFI has heaped praise on Arsenal centre-back partner Laurent Koscielny.
The 24-year-old, who signed for Arsenal from Valencia in the summer, has formed a formidable bond with the Frenchman in the heart of defence this season.
Arsenal find themselves in fourth position in the Premier League table - three points adrift of leaders Chelsea - and Mustafi says the similarities and willingness to play out from the back is the key to the Gunners' success so far this term.
"I think it’s because we see football in quite a similar way," said Mustafi.
"We’re not trying to be just defenders - we try to start the game from the back, to play football and not just clear the ball.
"If you have the possibility to keep the ball on the pitch, then do so. Even when we’re trying to defend, we look to go forward too - not just drop, drop, drop and find yourself always in the box.
"I think they’re small details that show we see the game the same way, and then it makes everything easier because when I have to deal with a situation he knows how to react to cover me, and I’m the same.
"I see a situation and think, 'He’s going to go,' because I know I could go as well, but then I can cover him. If you see the game with the same eyes it’s easier, and that’s what’s happening."