Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez set for Arsenal return ahead of Chelsea match

The Gunners are handed a huge boost ahead of crunch Premier League meeting with Guus Hiddink's men

Mesut Özil was a key performer for Arsenal at Anfield (Reuters)

Arsenal have received a huge boost ahead of the Premier League clash with champions Chelsea as Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez near returns from injury.

The Gunners, top of the table on goal difference, will also be buoyed by Tomas Rosicky, Danny Welbeck, Francis Coquelin and Jack Wilshere all returning to full training in the next month.

Ozil was absent for the goalless draw with Stoke while Sanchez has not played since November. The Chilean is expected to appear from the bench while Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager, hopes to play Ozil from the start.

Eden Hazard is expected to be back from a short-term knock for the Blues for the show-piece match at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

“Compared to last week we have no big problems for the squad,” Wenger said.

“Ozil certainly will be available and Sanchez, the next two days will be decisive, but I think this time he will make it.

“Coquelin is back in full training today, ahead of schedule, Welbeck is in full training next week. Rosicky will play tomorrow night.”


 Nacho Monreal
 (2015 The Arsenal Football Club Plc)

Meanwhile, Nacho Monreal has signed a new long-term contract with the club until 2019.

The 29-year-old has played in all 22 of the Gunners' Premier League games this season, and has been one of the standout performers for the league leaders.

Upon putting pen to paper on the deal, Monreal said: "I’m really happy because my intention was to keep playing for Arsenal.

"I have a good relationship with my team-mates and we keep improving year after year. I wanted to stay here and I could extend my contract. I would like to play here for many more years."