The deepest-lying midfielder, sitting in front of the back four and breaking up opposition attacks before they develop. Also called a defensive midfielder, pivot, or the 'six.' Doesn't get the goals or assists but controls the entire tempo of the match. Makelele defined the modern role so completely that the position was called 'the Makelele role' for a decade.
"He sits in front of the back four and hoovers up everything. Nothing gets past the holding midfielder today."