Alexis Sanchez heaps praise on 'intelligent' Sead Kolasinac

Arsenal attacker Alexis Sanchez has been impressed with the impact of Sead Kolasinac, who has quickly become a favourite among the Gunners faithful.

The Bosnian footballer joined the Gunners on a free transfer from Schalke in the summer, and he has since contributed two goals and three assists for the club in all competitions.

Speaking on the club's official website, Sanchez hailed the Gunners recruit with whom he has built up a good understanding on the left flank this campaign.

He said: "He's a very experienced player and he's really strong. When it matters [in games], he finds me and makes good passes so I can score.

"He is an intelligent player who can create good goalscoring opportunities.  He's already demonstrated his quality. He's scored goals, provided assists and shown what he can do both in European and league games."

Kolasinac suffered a recurrence of his hip injury during the 2-1 comeback win over Swansea City last weekend, but Arsene Wenger remains hopeful that the left wing-back will return in time for this weekend's Manchester City game.

Pep Guardiola's side currently hold a nine-point lead over the Gunners at the top of the table, but Wenger has recently stressed that the Citizens' unbeaten run has to be stopped at some point.