Mathieu Debuchy has said that he has fond memories of a "great atmosphere" from his time at Newcastle United ahead of his first meeting against his old club.

The defender moved from St James' Park to Arsenal in the summer, and will face his former teammates this weekend when the Magpies travel to the Emirates.

The Frenchman told his new team's matchday programme: "I had a great time at Newcastle and I can never thank the club and the fans enough for what they have done for me.

"I only have great memories from there. Thanks to them, I discovered English football. I played in a great atmosphere in every home match.

"The fans are amazing and I will keep those moments all my life. It will be special to face them but it will be even more special later in the season when we play them up there."

Debuchy joined Newcastle from Lille in January 2013.