Sanchez and Wilshere all- clear

JACK WILSHERE and Alexis Sanchez gave Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger a double dose of FA Cup relief last night.

Wilshere returned to full training this week after two and a half months out with ankle problems, and could make a shock return in Sunday’s FA Cup fifth- round clash with Championship leaders Middlesbrough.

Wenger also had cause to smile as it was revealed key striker Sanchez had escaped serious knee problems.

Wilshere damaged ankle ligaments against Manchester United on November 22 but his progress since returning to training has been so rapid that Wenger could bring him back against Boro.

It was feared Sanchez would be out for two to three weeks after limping off during Tuesday’s 2- 1 win over Leicester. However, the Chile star had tests yesterday and is now expected to be fit for Sunday.

Wenger, however, will be without Aaron Ramsey for at least two weeks after he damaged a hamstring for the third time this season.

The Wales midfielder lasted only nine minutes against Leicester and faces a race to be fit for the Champions League last- 16 tie against Monaco on February 25.

LIVERPOOL’S injury woes have worsened, with Steven Gerrard set to be sidelined for up to three weeks with a hamstring injury.

Gerrard scored a penalty before he limped out of the 3- 2 win over Tottenham on Tuesday after 68 minutes and he will have a scan in the next 24 hours.

The Reds are already without fellow midfielder Lucas for six weeks due to a groin injury.