Rob Holding became our third signing of the summer when he agreed a deal to join the club this week. Below is a transcript of his first interview as an Arsenal player:
SIGNING NEWS:
- Arsenal agree deal to sign Rob Holding
- Pictures: Holding in Arsenal colours
- Quiz: How well do you know Rob Holding?
- Arsenal agree deal with Granit Xhaka
- VIDEO: Watch Xhaka's first interview
- Quiz: How well do you know Xhaka
- Arsenal agree deal for Japan forward
- Picture special: Takumo Asano
Rob, welcome to Arsenal. How does it feel to have signed for the club?
Yeah, it's a massive club to have signed for. It's something you dream of as a kid, so I can't wait to get started.
What was your first reaction when you heard about Arsenal's interest?
I was over the moon - I couldn't believe it at first because of the size of the club. It was just a long way to get it done and get down here.
How important was our policy of promoting youngsters to your decision to join?
It gives young players a massive boost. They know that if they work hard and stick to what they know, they'll get the chance. It's what we work for.
You're up against the likes of Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny, Calum Chambers and Gabriel, so there's real competition there...
There's massive competition here and it will only improve me. It will push me to new boundaries and hopefully I can prove my worth.
How much do you know about Arsenal?
I've watched them on the TV mainly. I've never been down to London. They've always played nice football, they've got a reputation for playing nice football. That suits me and hopefully I can bring what I do.
What do you admire most about Arsenal? Is it the style of football?
It’s definitely the style of football - the way they pass it, those sharp one-twos around the box.
You’ve played at full-back and centre-back for Bolton. What’s your more natural position?
Definitely centre-back. I felt more at home at centre-back than I was at right-back.
How much of a plus to your game is it that you can play in both positions?
It gives you more chance of getting in the team, the more positions you can cover. If they need me to play anywhere along the back, I’ll be more than happy to do so.
on how tough it was to leave Bolton…
Yeah it was tough. Bolton will always have a place in my heart and I’ll always be keeping an eye on their results. I’ve got loads of friends there and coaches who I’ll still talk to there, so I’ll always stay in touch and I wish them the best for the future.
More quizzes to follow soon!
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