Rob Holding has given the Arsenal squad's seal of approval to Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Martinelli.
After recovering from a hernia operation, Scottish full-back Tierney made his Gunners debut in the 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday, a game in which Martinelli scored twice.
Holding also found the net in the convincing victory in what was his first game in 10 months after battling back from a knee injury, and the centre-back - who ended the evening with the Arsenal captain's armband - was quick to pay tribute to the duo.
“Kieran’s a good Scottish lad who brings a bit of banter to the team,” said Holding, via Goal.com .
“He and I are getting on really well, you couldn't ask for a better way for him to settle in.
“He’s a top-quality lad and he’s a great lift in the changing room as well. He’s a really nice guy and I’m so happy for him to play and get 60 minutes under his belt.”
Eighteen-year-old Brazilian forward Martinelli was making his first start for the Gunners having come off the bench in the 1-0 win at Newcastle on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.
The teenager headed home the opening goal and rounded off the scoring with a brilliant strike late on, sandwiching further goals from Holding, Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson.
“He’s been a handful in training,” added centre-back Holding. “He’s a sharp lad and a natural finisher.
“You saw the header, he’s a small lad and he got up there and won it. He’s impressive so hopefully he can continue with that.”
The Gunners go to Manchester United in the Premier League in their next fixture on Monday evening.
