Arsene Wenger has defended his decision to play Alexis Sanchez in the 1-1 draw with Norwich City after the Arsenal forward was forced off with a hamstring injury.

The Chilean started the game at Carrow Road despite Wenger admitting that he was battling with soreness in his hamstring following the midweek victory over Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.

Sanchez only lasted an hour before aggravating the problem, but his manager hit back at suggestions that it was a mistake to keep him in the side.

"The players are there to play football and not to be rested when the press decides they need to be rested," the Frenchman told reporters. "He says it is a kick on his hamstring. I fear the reality is worse than that."

When asked whether Sanchez was attempting to play down the injury, Wenger responded: "Of course, like everybody. Nobody is scientifically developed enough, not even the press, to predict exactly when a guy would be injured. I must say that with all humility we are not [in a] position to predict that, despite all our tests he looked alright."

Arsenal return to action against Sunderland on Saturday before meeting Olympiacos in their crucial Champions League game next Wednesday.