Cedric Soares has reaffirmed his commitment to Arsenal amid speculation over his future at the Emirates.
The Portuguese right back was subject of interest from Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window, as Diego Simeone's side looked to find a replacement for Kieran Trippier following his move to Newcastle.
The EURO 2016 winner has faced stiff competition for regular game time from deadline day signing Takehiro Tomiyasu, and after failing to start a Premier League game for the Gunners since their 5-0 defeat to Manchester City in August, there were some suggestions that he could leave to secure more regular game time.
However, after starting both of the last two league matches against Wolves and Brentford, Cedric has moved to confirm his focus is fully on Mikel Arteta 's side.
"I feel good mentally," the 30-year-old told Portuguese outlet Sport TV. "The team has been playing well. I think the games have been going quite well and it's been positive.
"I've been getting more opportunities to play. I've been working hard on my game so that when I'm called upon, I can help the team."
Cedric's impressive performances for Arsenal have drawn specific praise from manager Arteta, who now faces a tough dilemma over the right back spot ahead of Thursday night's clash with Wolves, with Tomiyasu fit again following a calf injury.
However, this is something the Spaniard admitted he's happy to deal with.
"It’s exactly what I want that we have players that can play in the same role with different qualities that give us different options and you have the reassurance that they both can perform at the highest level," the Gunners boss said.
Thursday night's match at the Emirates takes on an even greater significance for Arsenal as they seek to claim a crucial three points over top four rivals Wolves.
After failing to qualify for Europe last season and being eliminated from the FA Cup and Carabao Cup already, Cedric went on to reveal that Gunners squad's sole ambition is to ensure that they are back in Europe's elite competition next campaign.
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"Arsenal has to be in Europe," the Portuguese said.
"It is very important for a club like Arsenal. We have the goal of trying to get to that position so we can go to the Champions League which is clearly what all the players and the club are aiming for."
