He spent three seasons in Arsenal's' reserve team, eventually converting to a centre forward, although his progress was restricted in part by national service.

[1] He made his debut against Stoke City on 26 December 1950; initially a bit-part player, he became an established regular in the side in 1951–52 and remained there for three seasons.

However, he lost his place in the Arsenal side in 1954–55, before returning the following season (1955–56), having been converted into a utility man – playing in defence, midfield or up front.

Holton was then controversially sold to Northampton Town in 1961 where he scored a club record 36 goals in 1961–62, thus achieving the rare feat of holding the all-time goals in a season record at two different clubs.

He finally retired in 1968, due in part to a knee injury,[1] and left the game completely to take up a career in engineering.