Alexi Sanchez and Santi Cazorla are set to miss Arsenal’s crucial clash with Greek side Olympiacos in the Champions League.
Star forward Sanchez suffered a hamstring injury during the 1-1 draw at Norwich on Sunday, while midfielder Cazorla picked up a knee injury at Carrow Road.
The pair are almost certain to be ruled out of next Wednesday’s crunch trip, when only victory by two clear goals will guarantee Arsene Wenger’s side a place in the knockout stages.
Sanchez also faces a battle to be fit for the Gunners’ busy festive period — which includes a top-of-the-table match against Manchester City.
The Chilean felt minor tension in his hamstring after last week’s victory over Dinamo Zagreb but was able to train on Friday and declared himself fit on Saturday before the team flew to Norfolk.
He was cleared to play by club medics, though Wenger was aware of the risk of Sanchez breaking down given his problems earlier in the week.
Sanchez told his manager that Sunday’s injury was merely a kick on his hamstring but there were fears that he had strained the muscle.
He had tests yesterday but the extent of the injury will not be confirmed until further tests today.
Laurent Koscielny, Theo Walcott and Kieran Gibbs, however, could all be fit for Sunderland’s visit to the Emirates on Saturday.
Koscielny limped off at Norwich with a hip injury but Arsenal are hopeful the France centre back will return to training before the weekend. Arsenal are also optimistic that Walcott, who has missed a month with a calf injury, will return to full training by the end of the week.
The forward could be on the bench against Sam Allardyce’s improving side, while left back Gibbs, who missed the trip to Norwich, is expected to be fit for Saturday. – Daily Mail