I doubt that I was the only Arsenal fan to be surprised to see the name of our France international right back in the starting line-up instead of the young Spaniard Hector Bellerin at the weekend. But Arsene Wenger revealed after the game that Bellerin had been playing with some ankle problem and the boss took the chance to rest him.
It nearly backfired on the Gunners as Debuchy was running on empty in extra time, but the manager got away with it and now has a decision to make about whether to keep the Frenchman in the side for the Chelsea game. With Eden Hazard likely to be their most potent threat and operating down our right flank, perhaps the extra experience of Debuchy will swing the balance in his favour.
But the Gunners need to win the game and the Spanish international has been an excellent addition to the attacking side of our game this season. He is none too shabby defensively either as he has come on in leaps and bounds since Debuchy picked up that shoulder injury against Stoke City.
Lots of Arsenal players and the manager have heaped praise on the youngster for character and personality as well as his ability so I don´t think he will wilt under the pressure of this massive game, while his speed could help him to cope with Chelsea´s counter attacking tactics.
In this stats comparison on Squawka.com, Bellerin beats Debuchy in almost all attacking factors except shots attempted.
His overall score is better, as are the totals for defence, but Debuchy comes out on top in some key areas like tackles won, blocks, clearances and aerial duels. So, Gooners, which right back would you start with on Sunday?