Alexis Sanchez returned to the Arsenal starting line-up tonight, but around 30 minutes in – he picked up an injury after a collision with Matthew Upson. Most Arsenal fans then suggested on Twitter that he should be immediately removed, as the game was not worth the risk of a long term injury.
However Sanchez was only substituted with 30 minutes to go when it was clear he hadn’t managed to shake off the injury. Many Arsenal fans have been outraged by that decision, suggesting he should have been removed the moment he picked up an injury. Wenger admitted after the game that he wanted to take the Chilean off at half time, but the player insisted he was fine and that he should play on. Perhaps Wenger should not let the players make these kind of decisions?
Aaron Ramsey also picked up an injury after coming off the bench, so there were certainly plenty of negatives from the game, despite the Gunners taking all three points. Arsenal await news on how serious the damage is to Ramsey and Sanchez, but all fingers are crossed for a quick recovery for the duo.
Here’s what Twitter thought of Wenger’s handling of Sanchez’ injury.
Very disappointing to hear Wenger's comments re Sanchez wanting to play on. When he's clearly been injured, that "choice" shouldn't be his.
— S (@attwood10) February 10, 2015
@Calciodiction Sanchez rushed himself back. Wenger needed to be stronger and protect him from himself.
— Leo Rossi (@MercurialRossi) February 10, 2015
Wenger says Sanchez' injury doesn't look too bad. It was a kick on the knee.
— Henrik Hindby (@HenrikHindby) February 10, 2015
Wenger:"At half-time I wanted to take Alexis off, but he said 'no, I'm ok'."
Yet again, Wenger lets the player make the decision.
— Henrik Hindby (@HenrikHindby) February 10, 2015
Alexis's tweet is worrying but Wenger said he looks ok. Which tbh doesn't really mean anything
— Zak (@ZakDaGooner) February 10, 2015
Wenger on Alexis "I was ready to take him off at half-time but he said, ‘no it’s okay, I can go on"
Should be manager/ medical decision.
— . (@OneLilChilean) February 10, 2015
#Arsenal-fans begging Wenger to take Sanchez off. pic.twitter.com/IGAVhK9JKx
— Henrik Hindby (@HenrikHindby) February 10, 2015
