Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez out of festive period

Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Arsenal will be without the services of Alexis Sanchez for their upcoming festive fixtures.

The Chile international has not played for the Gunners since late November because of a hamstring complaint.

His presence at yesterday's training session suggested that a return to action was close, but Wenger has revealed that the 27-year-old will not be available for selection until January.

"Alexis Sanchez will not be back until January 10 or so," he told Sky Sports News.

It means that Sanchez, who has scored nine goals in all competitions this season, is likely to miss games against Southampton, Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Sunderland.