Carabao Cup 2017/18: Arsenal 2-1 Norwich City (AET): 5 Talking Points

#3 Extra defensive cover in Mathieu Debuchy

Mathieu Debuchy has only played twice for Arsenal in 11 months

In a makeshift defensive line, Mathieu Debuchy seemed to be the most competent of them all. Four out of Arsenal’s back five were not playing in their preferred positions and it showed. Most notably, Mohammed Elneny put in a shocking display, regularly stepping out of place when not asked to. Debuchy, on the other hand, despite naturally being a right-back, put in a commanding performance at centre-back.

The Frenchman’s performance gives Arsène Wenger a little selection dilemma for the future. In a season where Arsenal have struggled defensively, the inclusion of Debuchy in the Premier League couldn’t do any more damage. The 32-year-old won most of his aerial duels and held his positioning extremely well under the circumstances.