Arsenal hero Robert Pires has urged fans not to lose their patience with contract rebels Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.

While Pires wants the attacking duo to stay, he believes fans of the club should have some sympathy with their plight.

"I think it's not only very difficult for the club but also for the players," he told Marca.

"When you're contract is running out, you aren't comfortable and you need stability.

"I don't know what will happen in five or six months but I wish that Ozil and Sanchez will extend their contracts.

"I'm not the manager or the owner so I'll have to wait and see how it goes."