Arsene Wenger hits back over accusations of risking Alexis Sanchez vs Sutton United

Fans __have accused Arsene Wenger of needlessly risking Alexis Sanchez. (AMA/Getty Images)

Arsene Wenger has hit back after being accused of needlessly risking Alexis Sanchez in Arsenal’s victory over Sutton United in the FA Cup.

Wenger opted to bring the Chilean on as a second-half substitute with just 16 minutes remaining, despite the Gunners having a two-goal lead through Lucas Perez and Theo Walcott.

Before the match, Danny Welbeck had already pulled out of the game due to the plastic surface, but Wenger insists Sanchez was able to cope with the demands of the pitch.

‘He is a guy who has a strong body,’ said Wenger.

Sanchez replaced Alex Iwobi with 16 minutes to go. (Getty Images)

Sanchez didn’t suffer an injury against the non-league club. (Getty Images)

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‘I think on this pitch, it is the guy who does not __have good co-ordination, who is heavy on his feet, who is in trouble.

‘He is more a guy who has very good co-ordination, light on his feet.

‘I don’t think it was a risk.’