Sanchez could still play against Uruguay, says Sampaoli

Chile forward Alexis Sanchez could play against
Uruguay despite a calf strain, according to head coach
Jorge Sampaoli.

Chile head coach Jorge Sampaoli says Alexis Sanchez could
still play a part in his nation's next World Cup qualifier, despite
struggling with a calf problem.

The Arsenal forward played the full 90 minutes of Chile's 1-1
draw with Colombia on Thursday, but later complained of pain
in his leg, putting his involvement against Uruguay on Tuesday
in doubt.

However, Sampaoli has revealed the 26-year-old may play at
the Estadio Centenario if he shows an improvement in his
fitness.

"Alexis had pain in his calf and we will wait for him until the last
minute to see if he is ready to play," the Chile boss said on
Monday.

Chile sit second in World Cup qualifying, unbeaten in three
matches.

Sampaoli is confident of making the World Cup in Russia,
despite his side dropping points against Colombia.

"I am proud to direct this group of footballers, and I hope I can
keep doing so," he said.

"The leaders of the group are the ones who give me most hope
and it is the hunger and commitment to the shirt which these
players have which most binds me to the hope of another World
Cup.

"We probably will not be able to win each and every game, or
always play to our best, but wherever we are we will defend this
shirt to the maximum."