The Newcastle man is relishing the fight with the 30-year-old for les Bleus' right-back berth ahead of the World Cup

France defender Mathieu Debuchy says he always thought Bacary Sagna would return to the international fold and is relishing the battle for first-team football with the Arsenal man.

Debuchy has established himself as les Bleus's first-choice right-back in recent years with Sagna beset by injuries, but the Newcastle man insists he is looking forward to the added competition following the 30-year-old's return to the fold.

"I knew he would come back," Debuchy told a press conference.

"He plays for a great club at Arsenal and is very tough mentally, but I just have to think of myself.

"The France team belongs to everyone, [but] my aim is to give the coach [selection] trouble."

Deschamps' men face Georgia on Friday before a trip to Belarus next week as they look to overhaul Spain at the top of World Cup qualifying Group I.