Arsenal's Koscielny believes he is playing his best football

Laurent Koscielny has gradually grown into one of the Premier League's most formidable defenders since arriving at Arsenal as a relative unknown in 2010, and believes this season has seen his best form so far.

The former Lorient centre-back has been a vital part of the Gunners' title charge this term - perhaps its most convincing claim for league honours since "The Invincibles" campaign of 2003-04.

"I think I'm experiencing my best season at Arsenal," he told France Football, according to ESPN FC. "But I hope that it's not finished. I've reached a type of fullness at 30 years old. I feel I give more serenity on the pitch. I manage situations better.

"I've moved up a level compared to my first five years at Arsenal. Every year, I've moved up a notch."

Koscielny had to prove his worth below France's Ligue 1 until he was handed his opportunity in the top tier with Lorient, and believes this toil has given him a greater appreciation and work ethic now that he's at the top. He is also moved by how ex-Manchester United man Rio Ferdinand and Chelsea skipper John Terry deem him as the best centre-half in the division.

"It touches me," he said. "They know all the work put in to get here, the difficulty of this position and of the league. But I don't want to stop there. I want to be even better."

Despite ambitions that don't appear to have a distinct ceiling, Koscielny says he is pleased with his achievements.

"I've played nearly 230 matches with the Gunners, which represents a nice little experience. I've also just won two cups with my club in 2014 and 2015. I'm happy with what I've done until now. I don't envy anyone."

Arsenal looks to cut Leicester City's five-point cushion at the summit of the Premier League when the east Midlands outfit visits the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.