Holding eyeing England call

The former Bolton centre-back has defied predictions to make himself a valuable fist-team option this season, making 12 appearances in all competitions to date.

With Laurent Koscielny sidelined long term and a host of niggles affecting the rest of Arsenal's backline Holding has taken full advantage to make himself one of the first names on the teamsheet and speaking to 'Sky Sports', the 23-year-old said that he has been happy with his performances and that he hopres to catch the eye of the England boss.

"I think this is my best run in an Arsenal shirt," he explained. "Consistency-wise, it's been 12 games consistently playing to a good level, not playing because someone is injured but on merit. That gives you more confidence.

"Gareth Southgate has brought a refreshed feeling to England with a lot of young lads. If you're playing well in the Premier League week in, week out, as we saw with Callum Wilson and Lewis Dunk, you're going to get chances.

"You want to be a part of what they are creating at the moment. Obviously what they did at the World Cup and there is the Euros in over a year's time. It's a great time to be involved with England so why wouldn't you want to be."

Holding has played an important role in a 16-gmae unbeaten run that has seen Arsenal move to within three points of the Champions League places and he sees no reason why a return to Europe's premier club competition isn't realistic this season.

"We've had a great start, we want to conquer that top four and get ourselves back in there as soon as we can," he admitted. "That's the main aim.

"In the cup competitions we want to maintain our place in the Europa League and we're on a good run in the Carabao Cup and have a good game against Spurs coming up.

"We'll see if we can finish with some trophies. Top four with some trophies would be a very successful season."