Paul Merson has written in The Daily Star that Rob Holding should not leave Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the summer transfer window.
The former Arsenal star believes that Holding is a reliable defender and has urged the Englishman to continue to play for the Gunners.
Merson made the comments about the £2 million central defender (BBC Sport) while discussing the situation of another Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, who is now on loan at Marseille.
The Sky Sports pundit believes that Arsenal manager Arteta was right to block Holding’s move to Newcastle United.
Paul Merson on Arsenal centre-back Rob Holding
Merson wrote in The Daily Star: “Holding came in and did a great job for them against West Ham, and I think he’s a reliable defender.
“I remember when he was close to joining Newcastle but he’s proved Arteta right for blocking that move, and doesn’t seem like the type to moan when he’s not starting every week.”
The pundit added: “I can’t see him leaving for more minutes. If Arsenal qualify for the Champions League, why would you? It’s a great club. A Rolls Royce. And Arsenal have every chance of finishing in the top four. I expect them to beat Leeds this weekend.”
In our opinion, Holding should think about his future at Arsenal at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old has done well for Arsenal when he has played, but Gabriel and Ben White are ahead of him in the pecking order.
Moreover, Saliba could be part of the Arsenal squad next season.
The Englishman has made only six starts in the Premier League this campaign.
Will Holding be happy to be a squad player next season?
Yes, Arsenal could be in the Champions League next season, but would Holding still get enough playing time?
We do not think so.
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