When Arsenal went to Leeds we came out of the game with all sort of positives. Young players are scoring goals – how good are the youngsters by the way – read here. We put an opponent to the sword again. Arteta seemed to have found a good balance. We gave Leeds United an absolute hiding. Hidings are good for the confidence.
Happy days.
Not quite though unfortunately. A negative undertone managed to steal some of the limelight. It took the stuffing out of me, and left me finishing the match with a hint of resentment. Whether at Leeds; at football; the state of the game at the moment; or just society in general.
The news of racist remarks from Leeds fan/s towards some of the bench is absolutely abysmal. Disgraceful, and to be honest downright sad. There was and never will be any place for that behaviour in society let alone football.
Enough said. Let’s not give the Leeds fan the satisfaction.
Instead let’s talk about the responsibility Rob Holding put on himself to ensure something was done about this. Reporting the behaviour to the match official and taking charge of the situation was spot on. Well done Rob Holding; and well done to the Arsenal bench for not giving this lunatic the time of day – which couldn’t be held against them if they did let’s be honest.
We learn a lot about a person’s character when they are facing adversity, but even more when someone around them is facing that adversity. Rob Holding was there for his mates. He took a stand and had the balls to do something about it.
A lot can be said about his footballing ability. Probably not the future starting CB, but at the same time a very very good and extremely capable back up. He will be an absolute baller of a 4th choice CB behind Gabriel, White and Saliba next season. Solid player and reliable leader. What more could you want.
It’s clear that he brings a lot to the dressing room, which just cannot be understated. As Arsenal fans the resigning of Rob Holding really is crucial. If Arteta can convince him he has enough of a future then he will be crucial over the next few years.
We have a young squad. A squad that is developing. A squad that will still turn out mixed displays at times. One thing is for certain however – it is far far better squad with Rob Holding in than out.
Kia Kaha.
