Skip to content

Alexis Sanchez of Arsenal has chance to face Man City, says Arsene Wenger

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Arsene Wenger says that Alexis Sanchez has a slight chance of being in the squad for Monday's clash with Manchester City

Arsene Wenger says he might have to take the decision out of Alexis Sanchez's hands over when to bring the Arsenal star back from injury.

Sanchez has a "slight chance" to face Manchester City on Monday Night Football after missing the Gunners' last three games with a hamstring injury.

Wenger confirmed on Friday that Sanchez is back in light training but hinted there might have been times when the former Barcelona forward, as well as other players in his squad, has made himself available when not 100 per cent.

Live Ford Monday Night Football

"There may be a very slight chance for Sanchez to be in the squad again, but it's too early to be sure about it," Wenger said. "He's running but not participating in full training."

Asked if he trusted his players to tell him if they are not fit, Wenger joked "not all of them" before moving back to the subject of Sanchez's possible return.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

In a live Q&A which took place at Facebook London; Thierry Henry looked ahead to Arsenal's clash with Manchester City on Monday Night Football

Wenger added: "I believe that's normal for a player that he wants to play, and you want him to be keen to play, but he respects all the decisions I make and that's what you want from him.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Arsenal face Manchester City on Monday 21st December to kick-start our Christmas week of football, live on Sky Sports

"It's not trust in a negative way when I say not all of them but some of them are so keen to forget they have pain somewhere that they say 'I am alright' when they are not.

Also See:

"First of all, you know the players and their psychological profile, and you take that into account. Then you get your scientific advice and then you trust your gut, and the whole of it together makes the decision."

Wenger knows his side will have to be at their best on Monday in a game that will most likely be pivotal in the race for the Premier League title.

He added: "It (a win) will boost our chances to be at the top. City are a threat.

"You look at their individual quality and they are in it (the title race). We will need a top, top performance against them on Monday."

Get Sky Sports Alerts
Get Sky Sports Alerts

Breaking news, line ups and goal alerts from your football club - direct to your mobile

Around Sky