Mathieu Debuchy says he’s hoping to be fit for Arsenal’s clash with Queens Park Rangers on Boxing Day as he closes in on full fitness.

The French international has missed 15 games since suffering ligament damage to his ankle against Manchester City in mid-September but is expecting to return to first team training next week.

Giving an update on his injury to L’Equipe, the 29-year-old revealed:

“I think I’ll resume group training next week. I’ve been sidelined for ten weeks, but it should go pretty fast from now on.

“The aim is to be fit for the end of the year with a view to playing on Boxing Day, or even a little before.”

Calum Chambers and Hector Bellerin have been covered for Debuchy in his absence, the former proving himself every bit as versatile as Arsene Wenger suggested and the latter excelling against Hull City.

Ironically, it’s now the left hand side of defence that is looking short on numbers with both Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs doubts for the visit of Southampton. An update on their respective situations is expected tomorrow.