Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that both Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck will miss this coming weekend's Community Shield clash against Chelsea at Wembley.
Wenger's men lock horns with the reigning Premier League champions in the season curtain-raiser due to having lifted the FA Cup last term.
The Frenchman will be keen for his side to win the contest to start their campaign on a positive note and deal a blow to title rivals Chelsea – but the Gunners will have to make do without Sanchez and Welbeck.
Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Wenger was asked for a squad update and confirmed that David Ospina has only just returned to training, while Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck are set to miss out.
He also praised Sanchez's impact on English football last season, commenting: "What Alexis Sanchez did in his first Premier League season was exceptional. Hopefully he can do that again."
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The Community Shield should also see Arsenal's new signing Petr Cech line up against his former club, Chelsea, and Wenger is full of praise for the goalkeeper.
Wenger explained: "He will still improve. He has the desire and the right attitude to improve."
Arsenal have had a positive pre-season so far, winning the Barclays Asia Trophy in Singapore along with the Emirates Cup at the weekend.
Wenger will be hoping they can collect their third trophy against Chelsea.
