Mathieu Debuchy Rages At Arsene Wenger For Blocking His Switch From Arsenal To Man United

ARSENAL defender Mathieu Debuchy has slammed manager Arsene Wenger for blocking a "magnificent" deadline day move to Manchester United.

Right-back Debuchy has barely figured in Wenger's team this season, making just two Premier League appearances.

Mathieu Debuchy rages at Arsene Wenger for blocking his switch from Arsenal to Man United

The Frenchman was still allowed to leave Arsenal on deadline day, joining Bordeaux on loan until the end of the season.

But the former Lille and Newcastle defender, who cost the Gunners £12million in July 2014, has accused Wenger of blocking a move to Old Trafford because he did not want to sell to a title rival.

"I was disappointed, obviously," said Debuchy, 30. "If I had the chance to go to Manchester United it would have been magnificent.

"Unfortunately it wasn't the case. I discussed it with the coach, who said that obviously he couldn't help out a rival. Yes, I'm a little bit annoyed with him. It's his choice.

"I came back well this summer, I had a good pre-season. I talked to him to know my future at Arsenal. He said that I would have game time and that we would discuss it in December. Unfortunately, I didn't have this game time.

Arsenal narrowed the gap on leaders Leicester to two points on Sunday and defender Per Mertesacker believes that Danny Welbeck will prove his doubters wrong after his goalscoring comeback against Leicester.

England striker Welbeck came off the bench to grab Arsenal's injury time winning goal against Premier League leaders Leicester on Sunday.

Welbeck had endured almost 10 months out with knee problems, but his return is a timely boost as Arsenal gear up for the crucial final dozen games of the season.

Mertesacker said: "I gave him a hug and a well done afterwards - that says it all. He went through a bad period but he kept believing in himself when everyone maybe doubted him.

"It was a great chance for him to come in and show that he is ready to give everything to the team. Things come back to you. He was always integrated in the team, but when you feature on the pitch and give the team such a great goal and energy, it gives you a big lift.

"Danny will play a big part. We need players coming back, we had a lot of long term injuries which gave us a problem in January."