Poor old Mathieu Debuchy. The Arsenal and France international right back suffered his second freak injury of the season, with little helping hand from the Stoke City player Marko Arnautovic. And if the Frenchman’s worst fears are confirmed then it could mean that his debut season as a Gunner will have been largely spent on the sidelines.
We all wish him well, of course, but Arsene Wenger has to focus on how best to cope in his absence. Luckily enough, for a change, the right back position is one which Arsenal do have decent options for. In a pinch, the manager could use Francis Coquelin or Mathieu Flamini, as they have both played there before and can do a job.
However, the choice must surely be between the two young Gunners, Calum Chambers and Hector Bellerin. It was clear that earlier in the season, Wenger rated the versatile former Southampton star as the better choice, but circumstances have worked in the Spaniard’s favour and he has managed seven starts so far this season, including three in the Premier League.
Bellerin has certainly gained a great deal of confidence from his appearances as well and been able to show Wenger and the fans what he can do, including some real attacking threat down the right flank combined with great pace and the energy to get up and down and not neglect his defensive duties.
But there is an argument that Chambers is the better4 defender and with a tough away game at Man City next up, Wenger could err on the side of caution. What do you think Gooners?