Alexis Sanchez has told Arsene Wenger that he is in ‘good shape’ and ready to play against Manchester United this Saturday, but the Frenchman has yet to decide whether he will include him or not.
The striker reportedly suffered a ‘low-grade’ muscular tear during the international break but still featured for Chile, scoring two goals against Uruguay earlier in the week, giving Arsenal fans hope that he could be fit and ready for the game against United on Saturday afternoon.
Sanchez has reassured Wenger that he is raring to go, but the manager will make his decision tomorrow on the Chilean’s fitness:
‘We were in doubt before the game, 24 hours before the game against Uruguay. We didn’t know if he would play or not but in the end they decided to play him.
‘He text us that he is in good shape after the game – he came off after 84 minutes. Now we have to wait.
‘I will see him on Friday morning to see if he will be involved in the squad or not.
‘I will consider the risk of injury because he played while recovering from a hamstring injury.’
Sanchez has ousted Olivier Giroud from the starting line-up this season, taking the Frenchman’s centre-forward position away from him and is relishing it.
The Chile international has managed to find the net six times in 10 Premier League starts so far this season and Arsenal fans will be hoping he can continue his fine form during the hectic Christmas period.
However, having recently suffered what appeared to be a minor injury to his thigh, should Wenger risk starting him against United this weekend, knowing that the striker could suffer a reoccurrence to his current injury which could potentially see him being sidelined for several weeks?
It is a huge game ahead for the Gunners, but I don’t think it’s worth the risk starting Sanchez. In my opinion, Wenger’s best option is for him to place Sanchez on the bench and start Giroud. Should he need the Chilean during the game then throw him on.
We have several big games coming up in the next month which will shape our season, losing Sanchez through this period would be a nightmare.
