That’s the view of Gunners legend and pundit Charlie Nicholas.

Welbeck has had a fine start to the season, netting three goals in five starts under Arsene Wenger.

Sanchez has played 90 minutes just once this campaign following the Chile international’s failed move to Manchester City in the summer.

And Nicholas says if both players are fit, Welbeck should start ahead of Sanchez.

"Playing against Chelsea last weekend, you knew Welbeck had to start in front of Sanchez," Nicholas told Sky Sports News.

"At the moment Alexis Sanchez doesn't fit in. Sanchez is the best player on his day but at the moment if Welbeck was fit, he starts."

When asked if Welbeck was an automatic starter, Nicholas said: "Yes he is because of his pace and his movement.

"He's not the most natural finisher, and he will frustrate the life out of a lot of people but he stretches defences with his pace and movement every day of the week.

"That's why he played him at Chelsea. There was a reason behind it.

"He scored two goals the previous weekend and his pace and movement helped Alexandre Lacazette, who is a proven No 9. We just don't know how committed Sanchez is since his move to Manchester City collapsed.

"The options Arsenal require up front are pace and movement and Welbeck gives you that.

"If it's Welbeck up closer to Lacazette and then Welbeck on the left then so be it."

Arsenal held champions Chelsea to a 0-0 draw last weekend at Stamford Bridge without Sanchez and Mesut Ozil.