Does Robin Van Persie's Absence Call for a Change of Arsenal's Formation?

Arsenal's display against Sunderland lacked power, pace and pure hunger for the win The absenece of Robin van Persie was evident as Arsenal lack serious attacking power and creativity. It is likely that the Dutchman will be out for around three months which enables the likes of Eduardo Da Silva and Carlos Vela to gain some valuable playing time.

But does Robin van Persie absence call for a change in the Arsenal formation. 2009/2010 saw Arsene Wenger switch from the routine 4-4-2 to a more attacking 4-3-3. The change has ensured more goals and a much more dangerous looking Gunners side.

The formation has blossomed in attack. due to Robin van Persie's central striker role and the fact Cesc Fabregas has more room to move to create more opportunities. Also the fact every player has the ability to rove around the park enable more chances of scoring.

But the Sunderland performance showed maybe in van Persie's absence it wouldn't hurt to try the 4-4-2. The routine back four of Frenchman Bacary Sagna at right back, William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen in the middle and Gael Clichy on the left, would stay the same.

The midfield would change slightly with Alexandre Song playing his normal defensive role and Fabregas just behind the two strikers with either Samir Nasri, Andrei Arshavin, Tomas Rosicky, Theo Walcott, and Emmanuel Eboue all playing on the wings.

This leaves Euduardo Da Silva and Carlos Vela pairing up front. This will allow the strikers to work together creating more chances. Both are deadly finishers especially in the box, both Arsenal speedy and have great balance with a ton of tricks up their sleeves.

This formation could benefit Arsene Wenger and his men during the injury crisis. I'm not saying it may work but it may not hurt to try.