John Hartson sends message to Arsenal fans about Alexis Sanchez
John Hartson discusses the situation surrounding Alexis Sanchez at Arsenal after the summer transfer window
John Hartson claims that Arsene Wenger is “relying” on Alexis Sanchez to help Arsenal finish in the top four this season.
The Chile international’s future was a relentless source of speculation throughout the summer transfer window as he was heavily linked with a move to Manchester City.
However, a transfer for Sanchez failed to materialise as Arsenal opted to instead keep him at The Emirates, despite him being out of contract next summer.
Sanchez came on as a second half substitute during Arsenal’s goalless draw with Chelsea in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.
And former Arsenal man Hartson reckons that Sanchez is the man capable of helping the Gunners finish in the top four this season after they ended up in fifth place last term.
Speaking to the Daily Star, Hartson said: “He didn’t sell him on the last day in the face of all the criticism and people saying he’s got to let him go.
“Also, the financial repercussions – they might have lost £40m or £50m.
“But I just think he has to [perform], it’s really important for Arsenal and Arsene Wenger who’s gone out and made sure he stayed.
“He’s relying on Sanchez to get Arsenal in the top four.
“I think he will get his head down and play to the best of his ability while he’s at Arsenal.”
Sanchez will be expecting to start for Arsenal when they return to Premier League action next Monday night with a home clash against West Brom at The Emirates.
The Gunners have had to settle for Europa League football this season after they ended up in fifth place in the Premier League table last season.
However, Sanchez did help Arsenal to win the FA Cup by beating Chelsea at Wembley in the final.
