The coach of the Chile national team has expressed the importance of Inter forward Alexis Sanchez to his side, according to a report in the Italian media today.

Speaking during a press conference after the game, as has been reported by FcINternews, Martin Lasarte explained that a player like Alexis Sanchez can change the game in one minute.

“Someone like him can change the course of a game in just one minute.”

He then explained that the team do need to find a replacement for him though because despite playing 90 minutes against Peru last night, he does not have the fitness to do that again so soon.

“We have evaluated his replacement since he does not have 90 minutes in his legs yet, but for us he is essential.”

Alexis Sanchez has seen very little football this season as he has struggled with injury, meaning the prospect of him playing all three of Chile’s international games during this break is hard to comprehend.

Having just lost 2-0 to Peru, it is vital for Chile’s World Cup qualification hopes that they win the next two games during the week.