Arsene Wenger says he is unlikely to risk playing Alexis Sanchez in Arsenal's clash with Aston Villa this coming weekend.
The French tactician reported yesterday that Sanchez, who has been in superb form, has been struggling with a hamstring niggle and would be assessed on Saturday.
However, today Wenger has adopted a more downbeat tone around the Chilean and feels playing him against Paul Lambert's side would be a risk – and one he does not want to take.
Wenger told a press conference this morning: "I am unlikely to risk Alexis Sanchez."
Arsenal do though have new signing Gabriel Paulista fit to play and Wenger admits the Villarreal man could be drafted in if required.
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"Gabriel is ready to play", he said.
Wenger also expanded on why he pulled the trigger on a deal for the centre-back.
"I saw great quality. His level of concentration, he's quick, has great commitment and he's young."
It remains to be seen whether Wenger does field Gabriel against Aston Villa, as the Gunners look to bolster their top four ambitions with a win against Lambert's men.
But the Frenchman says he has no favourites and will play whoever is the right choice on the day, adding: "We are in a job where competition exists. The best player of the moment plays."
Forward Joel Campbell has headed to Villarreal on loan as part of Gabriel's switch to the Emirates Stadium.
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