Cedric Soares has fully recovered from the knock which has kept him out of Arsenal’s last three squads against FC Zurich, Brentford and Tottenham football.london understands. The Portuguese international returns at a vital time for Mikel Arteta to give the Spaniard more options.
Arsenal intend to call Cedric up for the Europa League clash with Bodo/Glimt on Thursday. The 31-year-old is determined to earn his first minutes of the new season and make Arteta’s choice as difficult as possible football.london has been told.
Cedric enjoyed a successful period starting in place of Takehiro Tomiyasu and was at right-back for a five-game winning run in February and March. However, the team suffered after Kieran Tierney suffered a knee problem and both Cedric and Nuno Tavares became the starting fullbacks.
READ MORE: How Chelsea gave Arsenal the chance to rehearse anti-Antonio Conte tactic that beat Tottenham
The team lacked balance despite what Cedric had provided prior to the losing run against Crystal Palace, Brighton and Southampton. With the performances of Ben White at right back though the chance to fight back into Arteta’s Premier League plans appears very slim.
However, Mikel Arteta has always been incredibly complimentary of Cedric. Speaking at the start of April with Cedric recalled to the Portuguese national side, Arteta credited him for being a professional despite not always playing.
“It’s not a coincidence. When you have the professionalism, dedication, habits and, obviously, the experience and qualities Cedric has - and you never give up - then at the end good things happen.
“He’s been patient, he’s been keeping quiet, he’s been working hard and accepting the situation. And when he’s had the chance, he’s done well. That’s why the national manager has decided to bring him back, which I’m really happy with.
"The player has to take all the credit - and I think his teammates have to learn a lot about that option. Because when you don’t play, and think you are right, you can take a completely different route.
Arsenal face Bodo/Glimt on Thursday and could potentially start an entirely changed back five featuring Cedric. Tomiyasu, Rob Holding, Kieran Tierney and Matt Turner could all come in to hand a rest to the regular starters for an incredibly busy month.
READ NEXT:
Takehiro Tomiyasu to be granted Arsenal request by Mikel Arteta during defining six-week period
Thierry Henry has told Mikel Arteta why Arsenal must intercept Chelsea's £56m bargain transfer
Arsenal director resigns as Mikel Arteta set to receive further backing at board level
Arsenal's next six Premier League fixtures compared to Chelsea, Tottenham, Man Utd and Man City
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
