• Arsenal v Besiktas

Wenger keeps faith in Sanchez for crunch clash

ESPN staff
August 27, 2014

Arsene Wenger has chosen Alexis Sanchez - who was brought off at half-time in their 2-2 draw with Everton on Saturday - to lead Arsenal's line against Besiktas tonight.

Sanchez replaces the injured Olivier Giroud up front, with the Frenchman facing an extended spell on the sidelines with a tibia injury.

Laurent Koscielny returns to the centre of defence to partner Per Mertesacker, with Calum Chambers dropping to the bench for Tuesday's Champions League play-off second leg at the Emirates.

Yaya Sanogo is also on the bench for the home side, as is Lukas Podolski - who manager Wenger insists is staying with the club, despite reports the striker is set to leave north London.

Demba Ba starts again for the visitors, who will be in search of a crucial away goal.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Debuchy, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Wilshere, Ox, Flamini, Cazorla, Ozil, Alexis

Subs: Martinez, Chambers, Coquelin, Rosicky, Podolski, Campbell, Sanogo

Besiktas: Tolga, İsmail, Pedro, Ersan, Motta, Atiba, Veli, Mustafa - Oğuzhan, Olcay, Demba Ba

Subs: To follow

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close