Sead Kolasinac has not started in the Premier League since our 1-1 draw at Southampton on December 10.

But why is that?

Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ emergence is certainly one factor - the 20-year-old’s pace and increasing comfort in defence has earned him a starting spot in recent weeks.

But Arsene Wenger says a shift from a back three to a back four has also counted against Kolasinac.

“He is highly suited for a wing-back role, for a more offensive role,” explained the boss. “I think he will play again and I gave him a breather as well. He is working hard and I think he will play in a back four, as well.”

Play video Watch Arsenal video online 00:31 Kolasinac scores the equaliser

The back three has been jettisoned this month but Wenger will not rule out a return to the system with which he started the season.

“I will still adapt because we are capable to play in a three as well, because the team has practised now in both systems so we are adaptable.

“But, for me, we didn't score enough goals away from home. So that's why [I switched]. I felt as well that sometimes our game was a bit too lateral.”