Arsenal have begun this campaign slowly, but they have turned the corner under Unai Emery and are now in an excellent position to challenge on all fronts this season. The Gunners have won seven matches in a row across all competitions and are looking like they can secure a top 4 place at the end of this season.
Most of the credit for their recent success goes out to Emery and how he has utilised his squad to the fullest. The likes of Matteo Guendouzi, Alex Iwobi, Mohamed Elneny and Rob Holding have all played their part in keeping the seven-match winning run going as they now prepare to face Qarabag in the UEFA Europa League in midweek.
Early Signs Are Promising
Holding has slotted in well in central defence alongside Shkodran Mustafi and featured in both of their home victories against Brentford in the League Cup and Watford in the Premier League respectively. The absence of Sokratis Papastathopoulos from the Gunners first-team due to injury has barely been noticeable which goes on to show how well Holding has performed over the past few weeks.
The Tameside born talent has made four appearances for the North London outfit this season in all competitions and has just allowed three goals during his time on the pitch.
What Does Holding Add To Emery’s First-Team?
The 23-year-old is quite composed when defending his own goal and has a habit of making well-timed challenges. He is good at man-marking and is very aggressive with his approach to the game. Moreover, the former Bolton Wanderers defender is also good in the air and is a commanding presence at both ends of the pitch.
Will The English Defender Be A Success At The Emirates Stadium This Season?
Holding has all the makings of a good defender and can be nurtured into a world-class centre-back under the stewardship of Unai Emery. Although he has started this season with a lot of promise, yet he could see limited game time over the next few weeks as Sokratis is expected to return to the Arsenal first-team soon. However, if the English centre-half can keep his head down and take his chances when they present itself, there is no reason why he can’t be a success story for the Gunners this season.
