News came through just over 48 hrs ahead of the Azerbaijan game on the Saturday that both players had broken a curfew set in place by Sanchez and as a result both were sent home. Therefore missing what turned out to be two victories for the Irishmen, the second over England arguably one of the best results in the country's history.
Sanchez, it's reported, wrote to each player and followed that up with a phone call to tell them in no uncertain terms what was required of them to be able to get their international careers back on track but according to Sanchez he's not heard back from them.
They were on standy for a game against Portugal but then not even mentioned for the next game against Estonia
"Time is running out for Jeff and Phil to make contact," Sanchez told the Belfast Telegraph.
"The ball is in their court but it can only be in their court for so long. I'll not put a time limit on it, however it really is up to them.
"There is no need for a third party to get involved because I spoke to them both directly before the Portugal game. I told them what the rehabilitation process was and what I expected them to do before they would be invited back into the squad.
"I outlined it to them - it was a private discussion so I don't really want to go into it but I told Jeff and Phil - this is what you need to do if you want to be a part of my squad again.
"They were both on standby for the Portugal game but they weren't for the match against Estonia. I think that tells you something."
"If it hasn't hit home what they are missing from not playing international football, then it never will. They have missed victories over Azerbaijan, England and Estonia plus a great draw against Portugal. Those should be games you are desperate to play in," Sanchez continued.
"It wasn't an easy decision for me, but they showed a lack of respect and I had to deal with it. I have no idea why they showed such little respect but it wasn't something I was prepared to stand for.
"During my time as manager, Jeff has been one of my best players and started most of my games so to leave him out wasn't easy.
"At the end of a campaign or season you sometimes lose a few players, however there is a way back for both of them but it's entirely up to Jeff and Phil."