Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez bagged a superb hat-trick in his side’s 5-1 win over West Ham United, but Alan Shearer is not convinced about him being world-class.
The 46-year-old made the headlines last month after insisting that Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero was the only world-class player in the Premier League.
When pressed on the matter by Match of the Day host Gary Lineker on whether or not Sanchez should also be included in that category, Shearer remained resolute and insisted he didn’t consider him in that bracket.
Despite his sensational performance against the Hammers, with three brilliant goals, Shearer still isn’t entirely convinced and revealed what it will take for him to change his opinion.
“What I would say is, Arsenal are a much better team this year because of him. And, I would also ask Arsene Wenger, if he is world class, why has he taken two years to play him centre forward?”
When pushed by Lineker again, Shearer eventually conceded what it would take for him to be persuaded: “If he wins Arsenal the title then he will be [world-class].”
Unsurprisingly, the reaction from Arsenal fans wasn’t a positive one as they took to Twitter to question what Shearer has against Sanchez and whether or not he really knows how to assess what is a world class player.
The Chilean international has won two Copa America trophies, proved his class at Barcelona with a La Liga title and has helped Arsenal to silverware since his arrival with the FA Cup triumph in 2015.
Winning the Premier League title would certainly seal the deal, but in reality, based on his quality he has to be considered world class.
You'd think someone was holding the mans family hostage the way he refuses to admit Alexis is a world class player cmon Shearer ?? #MOTD
— ArsenalFanTV (@ArsenalFanTV) December 3, 2016
Alan Shearer needs a long hard think in the mirror if Alexis isn't at a world class level. ???
— Reev? (@TheReevHD) December 3, 2016
Alan Shearer trying to argue that Alexis isn't world class is like me trying to argue im not black #madness
— Naim (@naim_b123) December 3, 2016
I wonder if Alan Shearer thinks Hazard is World Class, considering his opinion on Alexis Sanchez.
— Segun Agbaje (@slick_shegs) December 4, 2016
Alan Shearer on MOTD: "Alexis Sanchez is not world class".
That comment alone is a sackable offence. IMO
— addy (@Addyylaide) December 4, 2016
Alexis Sanchez vs West Ham
3 Goals
1 assist
Man of the matchLineker to Shearer: "is he world class?"
Shearer: "uughh uggh ugggh ughh"
— Dinklage (@Dinklage_Afc) December 4, 2016
"If he leads Arsenal to title then he'd be world class" one of the most ridiculous pieces of punditry I have heard ,Shearer on Alexis. #fool
— Neil Payne (@NeilPayne) December 4, 2016