Arsenal fullback Mathieu Debuchy admits using Newcastle United as a stepping stone.

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."