Phil Neville has said that Alexis Sanchez must prove to Arsenal fans that he’s still committed.

Speaking before the match against Bournemouth, the former Manchester United and Everton defender questioned what sort of reaction Alexis would get from the Emirates crowd.

“How will the fans react to Alexis Sanchez?” Neville told Sky Sports (via The Express).

“He’s the hero at Arsenal – he’s the one that shows the grit and determination.

“They’ll be showing up at The Emirates thinking ‘he didn’t want to play for us last week’.

“If I was an Arsenal fan, I wouldn’t be supporting Sanchez tomorrow unless he showed me he was still committed to the cause.” 

Neville’s words were oddly prophetic, as Alexis received a mixed reaction when he came on yesterday.

While cheers came through the loudest on TV, people at the ground reported there were plenty of boos as well.

Alexis’ relationship with the Arsenal fans is now fractured following his botched move to Manchester City.

A good number of supporters were happy to see Alexis back on the pitch and playing for Arsenal. However, some supporters will be questioning Alexis’ commitment to the club.

It won’t take much for the fans to turn on the player if they feel he doesn’t want to be at the club.

Alexis will know that anything short of his best on the pitch will be questioned by the supporters.

He was busy when he came on yesterday and created a good chance for Olivier Giroud late on. As long as he performs, everything will be fine, at least until the transfer window opens again.