“Miraculous” performances from a resurrected player who eventually struggles with an injury are caught
Rob Holding has been a “miracle” for Arsenal this season, says Sol Campbell, with a player who was a “touch and go” to stay at the Emirates Stadium that does not prove his value in now clear from niggling injury cases.
At 25 years old and having moved to north London from Bolton in 2016, the high-profile defender is finally getting the recognition he deserves.
Timeless blows have hampered Holding ‘s progress at times, and there has always been strong competition for places on the Gunners’ books.
Mikel Arteta seems to have settled on a reliable defensive unit, with Arsenal currently boasting the second most minor back line in the Premier League – with only Manchester City leaders confirming they are a harder nut to crack.
Holding has played a key role in that progress, with Campbell welcoming the efforts of a multi-tasking executive who is enjoying his most lucrative venture to date.
“I think Rob Holding has been fantastic,” said a man who helped Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ to glory in 2003-04. Astro Stadium.
“He’s suffered a few injuries, both inside and out, but he’s come in solid and kept his own. It has come a long way and I am very happy with it.
“He was touching and leaving for leaving Arsenal and he has suffered a few injuries, but he has come a long way. It’s definitely been one of the benefits since he got back to the sidelines. “
When asked about the strength of the Gunners’ new defense, Campbell said: “It’s all about getting yourself right.
“Sometimes you go through a sticky piece. As long as you don’t allow two or three game goals, the odd goal is here and there, you can build on that.
“It simply came to our notice then. There is a real defense about whether you want to go for it or not. You want those willing people who get in the right position, play as a unit and want to defend. That’s the first thing you need to build on. ”
Arsenal have found those traits this season, with Holding cheering along with the likes of Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Magalhaes.
David Luiz has also added consistency to his much-missed game in the past, with Campbell seeing an experienced Brazilian fill an important role at the Emirates.
The former England international said: “It’s one of the oldest, experienced pros, so you want it to be in the changing room keeping everything man aiming and moving in the right direction.
“You need that experience to lead the youth. Arteta also needs them to police and make sure everyone stays on track. He does the training and makes sure everyone is relevant and focused, so it’s a collaborative thing.
“Everyone has to buy in, and everyone seems to.”