Sanchez made just his second start of the season last night, as the Gunners beat Cologne 3-1 in their opening Europa League game of the campaign.
Although he was quiet in the first half, the Chilean exploded into life in the second, scoring a sublime goal in the 67th minute.
And Keown is adamant that Sanchez is still the most outstanding player for the Gunners.
“I think Wenger made it very clear,” Keown told BT Sport.
GETTY
Alexis Sanchez (centre) is mobbed after scoring against Cologne
He wants the player in his team. When he’s forced to play, he comes up with the goods
Alexis Sanchez
“He wants the player in his team.
“When he’s forced to play, he comes up with the goods.
“There’s no doubt he’s still the outstanding player in the team.
GETTY
Martin Keown
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“And boy do they need him - it’s a massive game on Sunday.”
The Gunners will be hoping to improve upon their poor record when they travel to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday (1:30pm).
Last season, they lost 3-1 at the same stadium, with Eden Hazard's superb solo effort the pick of the goals.
