SanchezAlexis Sanchez is a doubt for Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa tomorrow with a “hamstring concern, manager Arsene Wenger has said.
Sanchez, 26, is the Gunners’ top scorer this season with 18 goals in all competitions this season. That haul includes 12 so far in his first campaign in the Premier League since joining from Barcelona in the summer.
The Chilean has started more league games than any other Arsenal player this season except for defender Per Mertesacker but Wenger told the club’s official website that he may miss out this weekend at the Emirates against Villa, against whom he was an unused substitute when the Gunners won 3-0 at Villa Park in September.
Sanchez has quickly established himself as a key player for Arsenal.
“The squad will be exactly the same as last Sunday,” Wenger said. “The only uncertainty we have is Alexis Sanchez who has a hamstring concern, and that will be decided on Saturday. He might be out for Sunday. The only [other] difference is that Gabriel is available and we’ll check him how he is physically but he should be alright to be available.”
Wenger did have some good news as far as Arsenal’s attacking options are concerned as he revealed that striker Danny Welbeck is due to return from his hamstring injury in time for the North London derby against Tottenham on Feb. 7, while midfielders Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta are also closing in on returns from long-term injuries.
“Welbeck is very close,” Wenger added. “He is really, really, really nearly there. He will be available for the Tottenham game.
“They are not completely there yet but they are not far. Jack should join in normal training in 10 days. Welbeck on Monday. That’s where we are at the moment. Arteta a bit longer.”