[Popotu Kim].
Arsenal’s ‘back-up’ defender Rob Holding has joined Crystal Palace. Holding has signed a three-year contract with Palace.
“Crystal Palace have signed versatile defender Rob Holding on a three-year contract,” the club announced on its official website on the morning of February 2.
Holding, who spent seven years at Arsenal, is a fierce center back with an aggressive streak. He made his professional debut for Bolton Wanderers after spending his youth career with the club. During the 2015-16 season, Bolton were relegated from the Second Division Championship, and Holding was a standout performer, earning a spot in the best 11.
With Bolton’s relegation confirmed, he headed to Arsenal to try and break into the Premier League, but he struggled to make an impact and was pushed out of the competition. While he showed flashes of improvement as he worked on his physicality and other deficiencies, he struggled to break into the first team. 안전놀이터
Holding had a difficult time last season as well. Arsenal were on track to win the title for the first time in a long time and found themselves in a worrying situation with the injury ward. With the loss of William Saliba, a top-notch defender, Holding was used as a replacement, but he didn’t live up to expectations.
After the opener, space was still tight. Arsenal used Gabriel Magalhaes, Ben White, and William Saliba primarily at center back. Holding has yet to start a single game since the start of the season. In seven years at Arsenal, he has made just 162 appearances.
He was made available for release by the Gunners during the summer transfer window and eventually chose to pursue other challenges. Speaking after his signing was announced, Holding said: “I’m delighted to join the team. I’ve played against Palace for years and seen the fans. I know how intimidating this place can be and how loud it can be, and I’m looking forward to seeing it up close now!” he said.
Palace chairman Steve Parish added: “Holding is a player who brings tremendous quality with significant Premier League experience for his age. Holding can play in two positions at the back of the Palace defense. We extend a warm welcome to him.”
Palace have snapped up backup goalkeeper Dean Henderson from Manchester United and now Holding from Arsenal. It will be interesting to see if Holding can make the leap with Palace, who have strengthened their defense.