Ex-Arsenal star Nigel Winterburn believes manager Unai Emery will keep faith with Rob Holding next season.

The 23-year-old was impressive during the first half of the season before his campaign was abruptly ended after rupturing his anterior knee ligament against Manchester United.

Winterburn thinks Holding could be a key part of Emery’s plans once he returns to full fitness:

“I think Unai Emery may be looking at the likes of Rob Holding, who had a fantastic six months and then picked up a serious knee injury. He was coming through and looking very, very consistent. It’s just a case of where Unai Emery feels he needs to strengthen.”

“Everyone will say that defensively Arsenal haven’t been great again this season but it’s not just about the defence. It’s about when Arsenal do concede how quickly they get played through the lines.”

There can be no doubt that Holding’s improved performances prior to his serious injury means he deserves a chance to become an important first-team player.

However, the club’s defence is in need of a major overhaul even with the centre-half back in the fold for next season.

The Gunners have conceded 51 goals in the Premier League this campaign and their lack of defensive solidity has played a major role in the club not qualifying for the Champions League automatically through the league.

Despite picking up seven more points than in Arsene Wenger’s last season in charge, they conceded the exact same number of goals.