Mathieu Debuchy can play centre back, claims Arsene Wenger

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Mathieu Debuchy has played just 25 games since joining Arsenal in 2014
The full back played for the first time since November 2016 last month
Arsene Wenger has claims he can now compete for places in the Arsenal squad
The Gunners boss believes Debuchy has the attributes to play as a centre back

Published: 06:41 EDT, 1 November 2017 | Updated: 06:41 EDT, 1 November 2017

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Arsene Wenger has claimed Mathieu Debuchy could feature as a centre back more regularly after the Frenchman impressed as part of a back three on his return from injury.

The 32-year-old joined Arsenal from Newcastle in 2014 as right back but has made just 25 appearances in all competitions after being plagued by injuries and facing intense competition from Hector Bellerin.

Debuchy made his first appearance for Arsenal since November 2016 during last month's 1-0 win at Red Star Belgrade in the Europa League and played every minute of the Gunners' extra-time Carabao Cup victory over Norwich City last week.

Arsene Wenger has tipped Mathieu Debuchy to become a trustworthy centre back for Arsenal

'We are all very pleased for him here because he has gone through some very difficult moments with setbacks,' Wenger said according to the Evening Standard.

'The fact that he got through 120 minutes the other night is a huge boost for him. He needs to recover now but from now on, he'll be a candidate to fight for the team places again.

The Frenchman has shown a new lease of life after recovering from a lengthy injury spell

'Maybe his future is as a centre-back. He has the attributes because he's very good in the air. You think he couldn't play centre back because he's not tall, but if you look at the number of balls he wins in the air, it's impressive.'

Arsenal, who lead Europa League Group H, host Red Star Belgrade on Thursday and can secure a place in the last 32 with a win, before they face Premier League leaders Manchester City on Sunday.