Sol Campbell has claimed that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will revert back to his favoured four at the back, with a solid addition or two.
The Gunners recently reverted to the newly fashionable 3-4-2-1 formation, currently sported by Chelsea and Spurs who occupy the top two spots in the division, as well as being tried out by Manchester United, Everton and Man City this term.
Despite Wenger’s 100% record with the new system, Campbell believed the switch is only short-term, with a back-four to return when he can trust in his defensive options.
‘I think if he [Wenger] gets a settled back four I don’t think he will want to play three [at the back], Campbell told Metro.co.uk.
‘I think you can play three naturally if you have a really defensive midfielder who understands when to drop back and go forward. Like [N’Golo] Kante or back in the day Gilberto.
‘I like someone who can move into that position and maybe the centre halves can split – they can cover the middle as a three but then after that they join back into the midfield pack.’
‘That’s probably why he’s set it out for three [in recent matches]. He hasn’t got someone who can just drop in there and feel comfortable in the centre-half and play that position for 10-15 seconds and then drop back in [to the midfield]. I don’t think he has got that player yet.’
The former Arsenal, Spurs and England defender revealed who he would target to six those problems.
Campbell added: ‘I think there’s a few [options Arsenal could target]. I think with Van Dijk – he’s definitely one to look out for. He can definitely add a lot.
‘His height, his experience, he’s shown what he can do. I think he’s got some more levels, there’s a few more levels for him to go.
‘In a better team I think he will progress very quickly. Passing wise, knowledge about where to stand on the pitch in certain scenarios. I think that’s got better over the years.
‘I think he will probably go, depending on where does end up. I think someone like him would definitely add to Arsenal.
‘Harry Maguire as well, English defender, I think he will grow as well. He’s got two good feet, mobility is good for a big man, English as well. He could definitely do a job.
‘I think those players could easily make the difference. They [Arsenal] should look and see what it happens.’
Van Dijk most certainly stands out as the type to stand-out in our side and make a huge difference, but I’m not sure Harry would displace Rob Holding, who is impressing despite his young age.
Would you take McGuire or stick with Holding? Are there any other Premier League defenders you could see us taking a further look at? Will Wenger stick with a back three?
Pat J