Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Arsenal will continue to play with a three-man backline next season.

• Arsenal switched to a back three against Middlesbrough last April
• The formation helped Arsenal arrest a slump in form and win the FA Cup
• Wenger also said he’ll use a back four as well

Arsenal made the switch from their usual back four to the en vogue back three against Middlesbrough last April.

The switch came about as a result of Arsenal’s poor form and defensive frailties. Wenger hoped that the new formation would tighten up the defence, while also giving the players something new to focus on.

It seemed to work, as Arsenal’s form improved, and they went on to win the FA Cup. Wenger has now confirmed that Arsenal will continue to use the formation.

“We’ll test many systems,” he said to Arsenal.com. “At the moment, in pre-season, we are in the continuity of the end of last season. In some games, we will play with four at the back and some with three, but at the start of the season we will certainly play with three.”

This could mean that Rob Holding will continue as one Arsenal’s centre backs, following his impressive form at the end of last season.

Nacho Monreal may also find himself as the left-sided centre back again, as Gabriel remains out injured, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will compete with Hector Bellerin for the right wing back spot.