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WATCH: Alexis Sanchez trains with Arsenal ahead of their Europa League opener against Cologne

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Alexis Sanchez has trained with Arsenal's matchday squad as they prepare for their Europa League opener against Cologne

Alexis Sanchez and Jack Wilshere both trained on Wednesday and could be involved in Arsenal's opening Europa League match.

The pair trained as they prepare to take on Cologne at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday evening.

Sanchez could play as he looks to improve his fitness while Wilshere may make his first Arsenal appearance in 383 days following last season's loan spell at Bournemouth.

Alexis Sanchez during a training session at London Colney on September 8, 2017
Image: Alexis Sanchez trained ahead of Arsenal's first Europa League match against Cologne at the Emirates Stadium

But Wenger looks likely to rest several of his big-name players for the match against the Bundesliga side. Petr Cech, Laurent Koscielny, Alexandre Lacazette, Danny Welbeck, Granit Xhaka, Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey did not train with the matchday squad despite all being match fit.

Arsenal travel to face reigning Premier League champions Chelsea on Super Sunday so a much-changed side was always anticipated.

Jack Wilshere keeps his eye on the ball during a training session at London Colney on September 8, 2017
Image: Jack Wilshere could be in line for his first Arsenal appearance in 383 days against Cologne in the Europa League

It is the first time in 21 years that Arsenal have not been involved in the Champions League after they finished fifth in the Premier League last season.

They have not played in this competition since losing the 2000 UEFA Cup final to Galatasaray but it could be seen as a route back to the Champions League.

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Manchester United won the Europa League last season to qualify for this year's Champions League.

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