Arsenal sets new London derby record with 9th win of the season as Holding impresses in victory over Crystal Palace

Arsenal, who are currently at the top of the Premier League, made history in the English Football League by defeating Crystal Palace 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Despite Crystal Palace sacking their former player Patrick Vieira as manager just two days before the game, they were not able to mount a challenge against Arsenal, who had the opportunity to widen the gap with Manchester City, who are competing in the FA Cup.

Bukayo Saka scored twice, while Gabriel Martinelli and Granit Xhaka added a goal each, with Jeffrey Schlupp scoring a consolation goal for the visitors. With a game in hand, Arsenal are now eight points ahead of the reigning champions, as they head into the international break. Moreover, Arsenal has set a new record by winning nine London derbies this season, which is the highest number of triumphs in capital clashes by any team in a single campaign.

Arsenal has had an outstanding season against other London clubs, earning 28 points out of a possible 30, with their only draw coming against Brentford last month.

Despite being knocked out of the Europa League last Thursday and losing two players to injuries, Arteta’s team showed remarkable determination and purpose in their gameplay, which pleased the manager. Arteta was particularly impressed with the way Rob Holding, who made his first Premier League start of the season due to injuries, fit seamlessly into the Arsenal defense.

Arteta expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance and their ability to compete and win the game after playing 120 minutes in the Europa League and losing two significant players.

During the game, Holding won 11 out of 15 ground and aerial duels, made five clearances, and had an impressive passing accuracy by completing all five long ball attempts.

With William Saliba likely to miss several weeks due to a back problem and Takehiro Tomiyasu also out injured, Holding may be needed in some crucial matches in the remaining fixtures of the season. Bukayo Saka had high praise for his fellow Englishman after the game.

“I gave him a big hug when he came into the changing room because he deserves it,” the 21-year-old said in an interview with Arsenal’s media channels.

“He was magnificent. We need that, you know, when he’s coming in to stay at the level that we’ve been playing. He was unbelievable today, so credit to him.”

Arsenal’s first game back following the international break sees them host Leeds United on April 1 before a trip to Anfield to meet Liverpool eight days later.