Rob Holding is back in training, and Arsenal are hopeful he can play a part in pre-season, according to reports.

ST ALBANS, ENGLAND - JULY 26: Rob Holding of Arsenal during the Arsenal Training Session at London Colney on July 26, 2019, in St Albans, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
ST ALBANS, ENGLAND – JULY 26: Rob Holding of Arsenal during the Arsenal Training Session at London Colney on July 26, 2019, in St Albans, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Holding played a full part in Arsenal’s training session on Friday, as he closes in on a return to the pitch for the Gunners. The centre-back has been out injured since the team’s trip to Old Trafford last December, but almost eight months later he’s not far away now.

According to injury analyst Ben Dinnery, Arsenal are hopeful that Holding can play some part during pre-season. There are still three games to go, with the Emirates Cup followed by trips to Angers and Barcelona, so a brief substitute appearance remains on the table.

Other outlets remain more cautious. PhysioRoom.com have Holding listed for a return on September 15th, and with serious injuries like these, it’s always better not to get your hopes up too early. Arsenal aren’t going to rush the defender back if he’s not ready.

Either way, it’s great to see Holding back out with the team again. When he does return, he’ll undoubtedly give a much-needed boost to the defence.