Mathieu Debuchy considered Arsenal exit

France international Mathieu Debuchy has admitted that he considered a move away from Arsenal during the summer transfer window.

The talented full-back joined the Gunners from Newcastle United in 2014, but a series of injuries restricted him to just 11 league appearances last term.

Debuchy has since then made just one league start, that being the Gunners' 2-0 defeat at the hands of West Ham United in the Premier League opener.

The 30-year-old has now revealed his disappointment at losing out to Hector Bellerin for the right-back spot. However, he is hopeful of retaining the starting role as the season goes along.

"It is difficult, even if I had not played a lot last season, in my head I would return to start after my recovery. But, at the Community Shield against Chelsea, Wenger chose him, Bellerin," he told L'Equipe.

"It was a surprise and a disappointment. Let's say it [leaving] crossed my mind. But I want to be at Arsenal and to take my place."