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Mathieu Debuchy says he used Newcastle United as a stepping stone for a bigger Premier League club.

The Frenchman – speaking to the media in his home country – stated it was always more than likely he would use Newcastle as a platform for better things.

When asked if it would be a stepping stone after signing for Newcastle, he said: “Yes, it was expected.

“After that, you never know what can happen, but I had already talked to my agents, and Newcastle was clearly a step before going into one of the table top clubs.

But Debuchy says Newcastle is still a club close to his heart.

He said: “I still had a great year and a half in Newcastle. I regret having left the fans, but that was expected.

“Everything was done quickly, I signed up for the World Cup, so I could not say goodbye.”

Debuchy also said that he received a call from Mike Ashley after his departure.

He said: “The president called me, he does not do it with everyone, it was a strong gesture on his part.

“It means that I have done good things in Newcastle.

“It was a bit difficult for me, I had a good relationship with the public and those of the club. It was brutal [the reaction of Newcastle fans], but I’m very happy to be at Arsenal.”