Chile could risk Alexis despite calf problem

Chile's Jorge Sampaoli has admitted that Alexis Sanchez could play a part in his nation's next World Cup qualifier, despite struggling with a calf complaint.

The Arsenal forward played all 90 minutes of the Roja's 1-1 draw with Colombia on Thursday, but complained later of pain in his calf which puts in doubt his participation against Uruguay.

His coach, however, has affirmed that if the former Udinese and Barcelona man shows improvement he could play in the Estadio Centenario.

"Alexis had pain in his calf and we will wait for him until the last minute to see if he is ready to play," the Chile boss told reporters at Monday's press conference.

His words will raise alarm bells at Arsenal, where manager Arsene Wenger has previously warned of his star suffering "burnout" while juggling club and international commitments.

Sampaoli added during the conference that he was confident of making the cut for the World Cup in Russia in 2018, despite his side dropping their first points against Colombia.

"I am proud to direct this group of footballers, and I hope I can keep doing so," he explained.

"The leaders of the group are the ones who give me most hope and it is the hunger and commitment to the shirt which these players have which most binds me to the hope of another World Cup.

"We probably will not be able to win each and every game, or always play to our best, but wherever we are we will defend this shirt to the maximum."