Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez to return to action next week

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Alexis Sanchez is expected to return to action for next week's FA Cup tie against Sunderland.

The Chile international has been on the sidelines since suffering a hamstring injury in the Gunners' 1-1 draw against Norwich City on November 29.

Sanchez had a setback in his recovery, but Wenger is confident that he will have his star player available ahead of Premier League clashes against Liverpool and Chelsea.

"I think Sanchez is still short [for Newcastle on Saturday] but he could be back in one week against Sunderland," Wenger told reporters.

Arsenal will head into the New Year at the top of the table on level points with Leicester City.