Cedric Soares may have saved Arsenal a fortune in the market – TBR View

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Cedric Soares was one of the standout Arsenal players this week, as the Gunners romped to an impressive 3-1 win at Southampton in the Premier League.

Playing against his former club, Cedric delivered an assured performance. But it wasn’t just the fact his performance was good, it was the fact he was playing at left-back in doing so.

Cedric is primarily a right-back. He’s had to wait patiently for his chance at Arsenal, after suffering with a few injuries. But Mikel Arteta has thrust him in of late and he has impressed. Indeed, Arteta had no qualms about using the full-back. The Spaniard has praised Cedric’s attitude in training, insisting he deserves a chance.

And in the bigger picture, even though it was just one display, Cedric might well have saved the Gunners a small fortune in the transfer market.

Tierney back-up

Scottish left-back Kieran Tierney is one of Arsenal’s best and most consistent players. This season he has been exceptional, so a team will always miss a player like that when they’re out.

That has prompted some to believe the Gunners need to delve into the market for a new left-back. Ryan Bertrand has been mentioned, while other names have been chucked around too.

But Cedric putting in the stint he did the other night could change Arsenal’s mind. Already on a £75k-a-week contract himself, the Gunners may have just unearthed their back-up left-back right under their noses.

In the Southampton win, Cedric made a team high two key passes leading to goals. He also matched the team high with three successful tackles, and made two successful clearances. (per Whoscored)

If Cedric saw his return to St Mary’s as his big Arsenal audition, then he certainly passed with flying colours. And at the same time, might have just saved his club a few million.