Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez says he is on the same level as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez claims that he has the same skills as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Arsenal superstar has often put in mesmerising performances for the Gunners, and he now believes he is on the same level as the very best players in the world.
Speaking to Spanish daily, Sport, Sanchez said:
"I have reached a level where I can compete with great players. I do not feel inferior to anybody.
"I liken [my qualities] to Messi and Ronaldo. I have the same abilities as them."
The Chilean joined Arsenal from Barcelona for £30 million and has since won the FA Cup and guided Arsenal to a second place finish in the Premier League. Sanchez also helped his country win two Copa Americas back-to-back even claiming the Golden Ball prize in the 2016 Copa America Centenario.
However, things have not been so good for Chile and Sanchez in World Cup qualifying so far. In 8 matches, they have only won 3 and they are two points off a spot for qualifying for Russia. Sanchez who captained Chile in their most recent World Cup qualifying match against Bolivia was annoyed with Bolivia’s time-wasting tactics. The match ended 0-0 and Sanchez was left fuming at Bolivia:
"I couldn't take it! They made me want to stop them and keep playing," he said. "Those are minutes that you lose. In the end, we played into their game."
Southampton's Forster ready to start against Arsenal but Boufal out
Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster is ready for Saturday's Premier League clash with Arsenal despite being ruled out of England's World Cup qualifier on Sunday, manager Claude Puel has said. Forster injured his arm in training last month and was replaced by club mate Alex McCarthy in the England squad against Slovakia.
"I think it's positive for Fraser and he looks ready to play," Puel told the club's website.
"He will be okay for Saturday, no problem, so that's positive. It was also interesting to see Alex McCarthy called up to the England team. It's a good thing to have two goalkeepers with them."
However, Puel said attacking midfielder Sofiane Boufal, signed last month, is unlikely to make an appearance at the Emirates Stadium.The 22-year-old injured his knee playing for Ligue 1 side Lille earlier this year and had to undergo an operation.
"Boufal has a little injury for the moment. He worked very well, every day, but now it's important he make good work with a strong knee. When he comes back with us he can play at a good level,"
Puel added,"I don't know (when he will be fit). I think one month or more to get back to a good level."
Southampton are yet to taste victory in the league this season, while Arsenal have four points from the opening three games.