Published: 14 January, 2016
by STEVE BARNETT

FAR from complaining that the fixtures are coming thick and fast, Arsene Wenger believes it’s actually “easier” to manage his Arsenal squad when they have a game every three or four days. 

The Gunners’ strength in depth will be tested to the maximum in the coming weeks as the club battles to win the Premier League and Champions League titles and a third successive FA Cup. 

With that in mind Wenger will be keeping a close eye on which players need a bench break ahead of Sunday’s trip to Stoke – and whether the time is right to unleash the fit-again Alexis Sanchez. 

“You have a rhythm when you have a lot of games,” said the Frenchman. “You try to check who needs a breather and who needs a rest, and you do it. It is easier to keep the squad focused and motivated when you have many games. 

“It has both a positive and negative impact. When you are on a roll and have no injuries, everyone is in the same direction and it is easier to keep everyone on board.

“Everyone in the next competition thinks they have to play, and that is a positive.” 

Quizzed on Sanchez, Wenger added: “He has a chance for Sunday. He is always keen to play. If you listen to Alexis, he can always play – even when he is injured. But we will be cautious with him.”