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Alexis Sanchez: Fan protests against Arsene Wenger are 'very bad'

Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez has criticised fan protests against Arsene Wenger as "very bad," saying the Gunners manager deserves a statue outside the Emirates Stadium.

Speaking to Direct TV Sports, Sanchez said Wenger was a manager who improved players.

The Chile international, who has yet to sign a new contract at Arsenal, again said he was happy at the club.

He called on fans to lay off Wenger, with some having staged protest marches outside the Emirates before recent home games to demand that the manager steps down.

"In my opinion, that is very bad," Sanchez said. "I think that a coach that gave this club a stadium, trophies and who has been there 21 years should have a statue done to remember him forever.

"He is a manager that looks after the players -- he develops them and makes them mature. I'm happy here with the players, the club and with life in general."

Sanchez and Mesut Ozil have so far refused to commit their long-term futures to Arsenal, with talks on hold until the summer.

"It doesn't depend on me but on what the club wants or doesn't want," Sanchez said. "I try to do the best, give my contribution to the team with goals and victories. Once the season is over we shall see what they want."

He added that he expected Arsenal to strengthen in the transfer window, saying: "I think that all teams always need to strengthen their squad with more players, like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich.

"I think we also have the option to do so, to reinforce the team and be stronger."

Sanchez could face a busy summer with Chile are set to play in the Confederations Cup in Russia and said: "I need a few days off to think about it, get oxygen and win that cup.

"I need to relax and recharge the batteries, which is crucial. I've seen the cup and I want to win it, that is the only thing I can say."