Arsenal fans were left bewildered when the starting XI for this evening’s game against Middlesbrough was announced.Three in defence. Six changes, including Theo Walcott and Hector Bellerin dropped to the bench. What’s Wenger thinking, some asked.And then Alexis Sanchez turned up to calm their fears.Much has been made about Sanchez’s inclusion in the nominations for the PFA Player of the Year award. The Chilean’s form has cooled in the second half of the season yet he was still included in the six-man list, much to the annoyance of Tottenham Hotspur fans who felt that Dele Alli deserved to be recognised for his superb displays.But Sanchez reminded everyone of his immense talent with a stunning free-kick on the stroke of half-time to give Arsenal the lead.The 28-year-old, who has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, had only one thing on his mind when Adam Clayton was penalised for a foul 20 yards from Middlesbrough’s goal.Sanchez sent his effort over the wall and perfectly into back of the net, leaving Brad Guzan rooted to his position.Once you see it, you’ll realise just why Arsenal are reportedly prepared to offer Sanchez more than £200,000 to convince him to stay.
Video: Sanchez's free-kick
Check out Sanchez’s wonderful effort below.
Pick that one out.
Twitter reacts
Twitter went wild, with Gary Lineker even expressing his thoughts.
Arsenal need a win
Arsenal are in desperate need of three points having seen their hopes of finishing in the top four collapse with a series of disappointing results.
Prior to kick-off, they were seventh in the table, 10 points behind fourth-placed Manchester City.
Victory against relegation-threatened Middlesbrough will see them climb above Everton into sixth, with a game in hand over Pep Guardiola’s side.
Things might not be rosy at the Emirates Stadium right now but with Sanchez doing magical things, nobody can rule Arsenal out in the battle to qualify for the Champions League.