THE BALL – Cédric has no minutes to play: “Of course I’m disappointed” (Arsenal)

Portuguese Cedric Soares is upset that he has not played a single minute for Arsenal’s first team this season.

“Of course I am disappointed that I have not played this season. I think since my arrival at Arsenal I have responded positively on the pitch whenever I have the opportunity to play.”

“I’ve been working hard every day because that’s the only way I know how to get to where I want to be. Of course I want to play and help the team achieve their goals. Whenever I get the chance, I’ll take it. I feel like I’m in great shape and I’m always 100% ready to help team,” he adds.

At the end of PSV Eindhoven’s Europa League match, last Thursday, Mikel Arteta justified why Ben White and Takehiro Tomiasso were usually the first options for the position, but conceded that the Portugal international deserved the chances.

“First there is competition (in the team), then he also got injured for some time. Now he is fully fit and he is a player who deserves to play. I want to give him a record because he deserves it.”

An opportunity Cedric says he is ready to take advantage of: “I will always be committed and ready whenever I need it. I want to help the team in every way I can, on and off the field. Challenges are part of football and I understand that.”