Arsenal FC Star Alexis Sanchez set for Return to Starting XI against Crystal Palace

In a change of plans for Arsenal FC, the Telegraph is reporting that the Gunners star player Alexis Sanchez could be set to make a sensational return to the club’s starting XI against Crystal Palace this weekend. The news comes days after Arsenal lost their opening match 2-0 to West Ham United.

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Granted an extended off-season because of his time with the Chilean National Team this summer, Alexis Sanchez missed the club’s Community Shield victory against Chelsea as well as the side’s home loss against West Ham United.

The Chilean was expected to return by the time Arsenal were set to face Crystal Palace but was doubtful at the time to see much playing time. The move by Arsenal show the club’ desire to get back to their winning ways after a disastrous result against the Hammers.

Expected to contend for the Premier League title this season, Arsenal FC laid an egg in their opening match. While much blame can be placed on the side’s defensive efforts including those of goalkeeper Petr Cech, the lack of threat in the attacking end also contributed to the side’s poor performance.

If the Gunners want to run with the Premier League’s title contenders this season, their is much they will need to work on. However, bringing Alexis Sanchez back into the starting XI should help the club in at least one of those working areas.

In his debut season at Arsenal last year, Alexis Sanchez made 52 appearances for the club and also lead the club in many attacking categories. The Chilean’s return will surely help Arsenal in the attacking end of the pitch this weekend.

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Given the club’s result last weekend, Arsenal are in desperate need of a win this weekend. While not in danger as the Premier League table is concerned, Arsenal need a win to convince the media, their fellow clubs and most importantly themselves of their title chances this season.

One thing that could hamper the club’s expected results this weekend is their defense. Last weekend, the back line and goalkeeping efforts for torn apart. The club that did the tearing was West Ham United a club which has already admitted it’s need for attacking players.

If a club that thinks it needs better attacking players on it’s roster to succeed just tore apart your defense, what do Arsenal think a club like Manchester City or Chelsea will do to it.

While this weekends matches will be important to Arsenal’s season, securing top form from the back line and goalkeeper Petr Cech will be even more important to the Gunner’s title chances this season.

Next: West Ham Quiet on Javier Hernandez

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