Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Mikel Arteta has admitted that Cedric Soares has been a bit unfortunate to not play more for Arsenal lately.
The Gunners have had some problems at full-back in recent weeks, with Kieran Tierney’s injury forcing Granit Xhaka to be moved to left-back.
Cedric has often been used as a makeshift left-back, but this in recent weeks, Arteta has opted to leave him on the bench, while the re-emergence of Calum Chambers at right-back has also seen Cedric’s opportunities limited.
Arteta admits that Cedric has been unfortunate lately.
“He’s been a bit unfortunate because he played some good games as a right-back. He played some as a left-back but it’s true that Calum came on and did really well,” Arteta said.
The Spaniard is spot on about Cedric.
Sadly, the full-back just hasn’t gotten much of a chance recently, and perhaps he should’ve been given more opportunities.
Of course, the fact that he isn’t a natural left-footer means that he’s not the perfect fit at left-back, while Arteta admits that Chambers has been solid on the right side of defence.
Luckily, the manager realised that Cedric needs more of a chance, and perhaps we will see him given an opportunity between now and the end of the season.
It remains to be seen whether or not he is selected against Villarreal, but it would be a surprise to see Arteta make too many changes in what is arguably the Gunners’ biggest game of the season.
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