Is Donald Trump in the Republican debate?

The first Republican debate is taking place

Donald Trump's fellow candidates have to answer the question: how does one deal with a rival whose bombast is part of his DNA? (AFP/Getty Images)

The 69-year-old tycoon and outspoken celebrity television personality is currently heading the opinion polls and as such he has secured centre stage in Thursday's debate.

Mr Trump will be positioned at the centre of the podium, courtesy of his double digit lead in the polls. The other candidates will be placed on either side of him.

From left to right across the stage, and as seen by viewers, the line-up will be: Chris Christie, Marco Rubio, Ben Carson, Scott Walker, Donald Trump, Jeb Bush, Mike Huckabee, Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and John Kasich.