Cedric’s real work of Art
ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta has hailed Cedric Soares for refusing to give up on his Gunners career – declaring him an example to any fed-up outcast.
The sudden re-emergence of the long-forgotten right-back – and his part in the team’s surge up the table – has taken everyone by surprise.
Making Cedric’s comeback all the more remarkable was this month’s recall into the Portugal squad for their successful World Cup play-off clashes.
Arteta is pleased for the former Southampton man, 30, insisting that his return to the big time is completely warranted.
And while showering Cedric with compliments, the Spaniard also sent out a clear message.
He expects every frustrated, fringe star at The Emirates to show the same commitment – rather than sulk and go public with their dissatisfaction.
Arteta (below) said: “It’s not a coincidence. When you have the professionalism, dedication, habits and, obviously, experience and qualities Cedric has – and you never give up – good things happen.
“He’s been patient, he’s been keeping quiet, working hard and accepting the situation.
“And when he’s had the chance, he’s done well.
“That’s why his national manager has decided to bring him back, which
I’m really happy with. I think that the player has to take all the credit – and his team-mates have to learn a lot about that option.
“Because when you don’t play, and think you’re right, you can take a completely different route.
“You can start to blame the coach, or your team-mates, or the environment or whatever, and look for something else.
“What he’s tried to do is improve, stay focused, to learn more and wait for his opportunity and when he needs to talk, he talks on the pitch – not into a microphone.”
That could be a dig at former players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil
– both given the boot by Arteta.
Yet, equally, it could apply to the current crop struggling to get into Arteta’s side, who head to Crystal Palace tomorrow aiming for a sixth successive away win.
While on Ivory Coast duty, club record £72million buy Nicolas Pepe spoke of his life on the sidelines as he plays second fiddle to England winger Bukayo Saka.
Asked about Pepe’s comments and attitude, Arteta said: “I want to hear that if it’s an honest opinion. “Pepe’s a different character to Cedric but he’s another who, every day in his own way, will try his best to
be ready.”