Wenger considers ‘gamble’ on Sanchez fitness

Arsene Wenger has revealed that Alexis Sanchez “is fit” to face Stoke for Arsenal, and is considering the “gamble” of playing him.

Sanchez has not featured for the Gunners since pulling a hamstring against Norwich in late November, with the Chilean having played rather a lot of games over the past year or two.

But Sanchez is now close to a return, and Wenger is considering playing him against Stoke on Sunday.

“He has two decisive days. Today and tomorrow. He’s fit,” Wenger said. “Do we take a gamble or not on his injury?”

Arsenal have won their last two games against Stoke, but lost the two previous to that, and have won just once at the Britannia Stadium in the Premier League. They have lost three and drawn two of their last five visits.

“We have struggled in recent years,” Wenger admitted. “But they also have a good home record against Manchester United and Manchester City.

“They have improved their creative potential. They can create, they can play. It’s a good challenge for us.

“We need the same intensity [as the Liverpool game] and the same desire and focus.

“The surprises in the league are happening again and again and again. The consistency of your determination will play a big part in this league.”