Mathieu Debuchy could be set to start his first Arsenal match since last November against Red Star Belgrade on Thursday.
The Frenchman joined the club from Newcastle back in 2014, and was expected to play a regular role in the starting XI, but things have not gone smoothly.
Debuchy succumbed to a season-ending injury in his opening months with the North-London side, and when returning to fitness his place was no longer available, with Hector Bellerin proving himself to be irreplaceable.
The Spaniard has since found himself to be struggling to hit the heights he was during his opening two campaigns in the senior side, and even lost his place to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain last term.
The Ox has since departed to join Liverpool, leaving the former Barcelona youngster with little competition for places, and Debuchy may well stand a chance of challenging him.
Arsene Wenger has now confirmed that Mathieu may start the game in Serbia this week, in which the Gunners will be looking to continue their 100% record in the group stage of the Europa League.
Wenger said: ‘It’s a possibility he starts tomorrow.
‘He has not played for a long time.’
The defender’s inclusion could see Reiss Nelson fielded in his favoured advanced role, which will excite fans who have been following his progress in the youth sides.
Nelson has been pushing for a chance in the senior side with a number of explosive displays, and the 17 year-old is strongly tipped to be the latest youngster to break through the ranks since Alex Iwobi.
Is Bellerin opening the door for Debuchy to earn a place in the squad? Or is Debuchy simply included to give the Spaniard a rest?
Pat J