Just because the team is not functioning doesn't mean the whole squad are always underperforming -if you don't have the right qualities in the right places it doesn't matter if they all perform to their best.
If we are to persist with the 4-2-3-1 formation IMO we need a Pelle or Lambert type to lead the attack - at the moment we don't have any striker in that mould. We have Long (can't score), Austin (can't play) and Gabbiadini (can't be arsed) - none of these are suited to the lone striker role even at their best.
Also, ideally, a decent squad has two players for every position which means we should have 6 to play the attacking midfield roles - at the moment we have Redmond, Tadic, Boufal and Davis. I don't see JWP as that sort of player so we are short in strength in depth in those roles which is why they've been flogged to death/rotated to try and find the right formular.
A few good signings in key positions could transform the team IMO.