Kieran Gibbs has once again returned to the starting lineup after Arsene Wenger decided to change up Arsenal’s formation.

• Gibbs has made just nine Premier League appearances this season
• Contract runs out next year
• Left-back relishing new ‘wing-back’ role
• Glad to be getting minutes under his belt

Gibbs has found it difficult to get into Arsenal’s starting lineup for years, mainly because of injuries. However, the left-back has been getting far more opportunities to shine recently after the manager switched the Gunners’ formation from 4-2-3-1 to 3-4-2-1.

The 27-year-old is now playing in the wing-back role, in front of Nacho Monreal, which is useful considering how brilliant Gibbs’ speed can be when it comes to surging forward.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday, Gibbs admitted that it’s fantastic to be back in the starting lineup.

“I think the formation is good for the team,” he said.

“After a few defeats sometimes you need to change. It opens up new opportunities for me and I’m happy to have got a few games under my belt.

“That’s always when I feel at my best, when I get a few games. I feel much stronger now.”

Gibbs’ current Arsenal deal runs out next year and it’s still unclear whether he’ll be offered an extension or whether he would even accept one given his lack of playing time. However, it’s looking far more likely now than it was before.