Alexis Sanchez ruled out of festive period

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that star forward Alexis Sanchez will be out until the New Year having suffered a minor setback to his recovery from a hamstring problem.

The Chile international has not featured for the Gunners since pulling his hamstring in the 1-1 draw at Norwich City last month.

Sanchez had been deemed doubtful to play in the festive period, and Wenger has now revealed that the 27-year-old is unlikely to return until the turn of the year.

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

The talented attacker is likely to be absent for the games against Southampton, Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Sunderland.