Arsene Wenger sounded fearful when talking about a knock Santi Cazorla suffered during Arsenal’s 6-0 win over Ludogorets.
Meanwhile, Wenger seemed confident that Alexis Sanchez came through the game no feeling any pain, despite many thinking the Chilean deserved a rest ahead of a busy domestic schedule.
Cazorla, picking up an initial knock in the first half, had to be substituted after ’57 minutes of play when a spiralling pass left the Spaniard feeling discomfort. He was then seen with an ice pack sitting on the bench.
Wenger discussed Cazorla’s injury in his post-match press conference:
“He got a kick on the back of his Achilles tendon and I took him off as quick as possible,” Wenger confirmed to Standard Sport. “In my view he was limping a little bit so I didn’t want to take a gamble.”
Sanchez, on the other hand, looked uncomfortable during parts of the second half but Wenger did not sound as concerned. They will need the Chilean at full fitness if they’re to keep momentum going.
Arsenal cannot afford a long dry spell in the Premier League if they want to end this long run without a title. Keeping their best players fit and clear of suspension can only help.
“I just wanted to give him [Sanchez] a breather. Physically he looks alright.”
Seven points from three games sets Arsenal up nicely for a spot in the knockout stages. Only PSG look to stand in their way of a first place finish in their Champions League group, a tie which recently ended as a draw.
Perhaps a play-off awaits.