Arsenal are considering dispensing of U18 coach Pat Holland just seven games into his tenure after a poor run of results amid concerns that he was failing to get the best out of the club’s youngsters.

Holland, who previously managed Leyton Orient and has held coaching positions at various clubs during his lengthy career, was appointed by Arsenal on the eve of the campaign to replace Steve Bould, who was promoted to the position of Arsene Wenger’s assistant manager for the first-team.

However, under Holland, a young side consisting primarily of first-year scholars suffered a hefty 5-1 defeat to Bolton Wanderers on the opening day of the season, before being held to a 1- 1 draw by Blackburn Rovers in their next fixture. A better run of results followed, as Arsenal won their next three matches, but they were then held to a goalless draw at home to West Bromwich Albion before enduring another heavy defeat, this time a 3-0 reverse to Reading in their last game.

It is understood that the hierarchy overseeing the youth development at the club, including Liam Brady, are concerned with Holland’s progress since assuming the role and are considering replacing him with U16 coach Steve Gatting, although such a decision has yet to be rubber-stamped.