Arsenal players to fill Mathieu Debuchy injury blow

With Mathieu Debuchy ruled out for months, Arsenal have been left with just five fit senior defenders.

Calum Chambers is now the only fit right-back, but also the only cover at centre-back. If there is another defensive injury, or even if Arsene Wenger wants to rotate his back four, the Gunners will have to find alternative solutions. Here’s three ways the Gunners can tackle their defensive crisis.

1. Hector Bellerin

A direct replacement for Debuchy, Bellerin is the most obvious stand in for the Frenchman. He’s capable of playing right or left-back and has the potential to be a first team regular for Arsenal in the future. He was in the squad photo for this season, so many fans are already anticipating his Premier League debut for the Gunners. He’s still a teenager but as Chambers has proven, if you’re good enough, you’re old enough. With Chambers the only cover for centre-back, Bellerin will be needed to start if Laurent Koscielny or Per Mertesacker were to pick up an injury in the upcoming busy schedule.

2. Isaac Hayden

Hayden is the least experienced option out of the trio suggested. He’s 19, English and can play in centre-back or defensive midfield. If Wenger opted to use Chambers as his right-back whilst Debuchy is injured, Hayden may well be needed at centre-back. He’s tall and strong, but I would have concerns if he had to start against the likes of Chelsea and Tottenham. He has the potential to be a good squad player for the Gunners, but the fact he is a couple of injuries away from starting highlights the club’s lack of defensive options.

3. Francis Coquelin

The forgotten man Francis Coquelin. His primary position is defensive midfield but many forget he debuted for Arsenal in a full-back position and has also played there while on loan in France and Germany. He’s not a natural full-back, but still has good ability in this position. He’s quick, aggressive and already has first-team experience with the club. It is also worth noting that Mathieu Flamini could cover in defence, meaning Coquelin could be needed in his favoured midfield position.

Source: Metro UK