Wenger tips Sanchez to challenge Hazard

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger expects Gunners star Alexis Sanchez to push Eden Hazard close for the PFA Player of the Year award.

Hazard has been the standout attacking player for Chelsea this season, helping Jose Mourinho’s side establish a 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League with five games to go.

Wenger, whose team host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday – the same day as the PFA awards – said: “Alexis will compete very closely with Hazard for Player of the Year.

“Everybody would agree that he [Hazard] has had a great season. He’s found maturity that he didn’t have before.”

Hazard has been in brilliant form for Chelsea this season
Hazard has been in brilliant form for Chelsea this season

And Wenger urged the north London club’s fans to give their former midfielder Cesc Fabregas a warm welcome on his first return as a Chelsea player.

The Spaniard had a mixed reception from Arsenal supporters during their 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season.

But Wenger said: “I want Cesc to be respected. He deserves it. He is a great player.”

Chelsea can as good as wrap up the title by avoiding defeat against second-placed Arsenal, who are virtually sure of a Champions League place.

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