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Arsene Wenger has been considering adopting a new three at the back system to solve Arsenal's defensive problems.

Wenger has seen the Gunners leak 12 goals in their last four games, including three at home at Fulham last weekend, a frailty that has contributed to a string of disappointing results.

Now, the Frenchman and his coaching staff have looked at using three centre-halves - Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen - plus wing-backs.

That would be the biggest shake-up in Wenger's tactics since he took charge in 1996.

His new No2 Steve Bould has tried to help shore up the defence but recent results have led to the coaching staff looking at different ways to shut up shop.

It has not helped that Koscielny and Vermaelen have suffered dips in form, and Wenger is desperate to get the club's season back on track.

Wenger is likely to stick with a traditional back four for the North London derby against Spurs in Saturday, but they are looking at solutions.

Meanwhile, Kieran Gibbs is hoping to return this weekend at left-back after an injury lay-off.