We have yet to find out just how long the rest of the Arsenal playing career of Alexis Sanchez will last. It could be just until the winter transfer window opens in January, or more likely until the last day or so, while it could span the whole season, with the more optimistic among the Arsenal faithful still hoping that the striker could be persuaded to change his mind about leaving and sign a new contract instead.
Whatever the case may be, the most important thing for Arsene Wenger and the Arsenal fans is to see the Chile international perform to the best of his ability while he is still a Gunner and the former Man United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has advised Alexis that he must do that if he is going to get any joy from his remaining time in north London, reports Metro.
The TV football pundit suggested that anything less than full effort and commitment from a player who wants to leave but has not, will be spotted quickly by his team mates who will not take kindly to it.
Ferdinand said, ‘For me it’s all down one thing.
‘Does he come in and act professionally at the training ground?
‘If he comes in and says “listen I’ll hold my hands up I do want to leave, I’ve not been allowed to but you will still get 100% commitment from me and you’ll still see that day in day out” then you respect that and say “yeah, you’re still with us” and you continue until the day you leave this club.
‘If there is any negativity or you think that he’s giving anything less than 100%, the players will sniff it and they will wean that guy out.’
There were some Arsenal transfer rumours this summer that suggested some Gunners were already unhappy with the attitude of Sanchez, so will he take this good advice and prove that he is fully committed, for now, to the Arsenal cause. And if not, will it be a very uncomfortable few months for the wantaway 28-year old?
Bob.