There’s some intriguing talk coming out of the Emirates today as Wenger sings the praises of the 4-5-1 he employed in the win against United – including a little hint that he could look to use it more often.

Wenger was, in many ways, forced to playing Bendtner up front on his own against United, with the inexperienced Vela his only option as a second striker. As it was, Diaby played in the role just behind Bendtner and he tracked back into midfield as the game progress, as the Gunners looked to hold onto their lead.

Wenger’s words today hint that we could see this formation for a good while yet, suggesting that Diaby’s potential in fantasy terms may well be on the rise…

Speaking on the formation employed against United, Wenger was in no doubt that it gave his side the platform for the win – offering them more defensive solidity.

“I will use it again because going forward we have scored many goals but defensively we have conceded too many from outside the box,” explained Wenger.

That’s likely to see Diaby playing off Bendtner again for Saturday’s trip to the Reebok but long term, it could also be a system that Wenger adopts from this point on. We’ve seen it in previous seasons, most recently when Hleb was employed just behind the front man early last season.

This could be a major bonus for those contemplating the Gunners midfield. Diaby will be an obvious benefactor, but the formation should also protect Nasri’s role in the side and offer him more freedom to bomb forward beyond the striker from a position on the left. We might even see Fabregas in the box more often.

It’s not such good news for those who have invested in Van Persie and Adebayor. Both should be back in action by the end of the month, with Van Persie due to return from suspension after this weekend. Just how Wenger will fit two strikers into the formation would be a puzzle for him to solve and it could well see greater rotation of the pair, particularly Van Persie.

“I don’t know [about what will happen when all the strikers are back]. I took this decision because I tried to balance the team with the players that were available,” remarked the Gunners boss.

It’s clear then, that Wenger is undecided on whether he’ll carry this change of formation forward once his two strikers return. There’s short-term gains to be had from Diaby though, and potential long-term concerns for Van Persie owners. Certainly it’s something I’ll have my eye on.