Alexis Sanchez not ready for Arsenal return - Wenger

Arsene Wenger has revealed Alexis Sanchez has not
recovered from his hamstring injury in time to face
Sunderland on Saturday.

The former Barcelona forward has been out of action since
late November and Wenger hoped the Chile international
would be fit enough to play some part as the Gunners begin
their defence of the FA Cup.

Arsenal face a testing trip to Anfield in midweek before and
equally demanding match at Stoke and Wenger is not
prepared to take any risks with his star man.

He said: “The bad news of the week is that Alexis is not
quite ready. It is a precaution because of his hamstring, and
it takes a few more days. He’s not bad but he’s not ready.”

Wenger delivered more positive news on the fitness of
veteran midfielders Mikel Arteta and Tomas Rosicky,
however, with the duo both closing in on first team returns.

He added: “Tomas Rosicky is not far, he’s back in full
training next week, so should be available soon. Mikel is
available.”