Arsene Wenger says that the versatility of Alexis Sanchez was a big consideration when purchasing the Chilean for £30m this summer.

The Arsenal manager told the official site that the former Barcelona man can play as a central striker, with the likes of Olivier Giroud, but hinted that in the absence of Theo Walcott – still recovering from a cruciate ligament injury – he could be deployed wide on the right in the initial stages of his Arsenal career.

“At the moment he might play on the flank because Walcott is injured,” said the boss.

“He can play through the middle, he can play on both flanks and he has the qualities that I think are needed in England. He’s brave, works hard and all these qualities together made me go for him.”

The manager is obviously considering all options when it comes to Sanchez, saying, “As well he can play through the middle in some games; we can play with Giroud, we can play without Giroud in a 4-4-2 or in a 4-3-3.

“That’s why he is a major signing for us, that’s why we spent a lot of money on him. He has the quality to be efficient everywhere he plays.”

Although he won’t be making the trip to New York for next week’s friendly against New York Red Bulls, Sanchez could play a part in the Emirates Cup the following weekend, giving Arsenal fans their first glimpse of the summer’s biggest signing to date.