Aaron Ramsdale says what he ‘loved’ about Arsenal teammate v PSV in 7-word message

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Arsenal drew 1-1 at PSV Eindhoven in their final Champions League group stage game last night, in a match which saw several fringe players feature in the starting XI.

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale made his Champions League debut as he came in for a rare start since being dropped for David Raya, whilst Cedric Soares and Mohamed Elneny made their first starts of the season.

Cedric and Elneny fared fairly well, with Elneny hitting the post before being withdrawn in the 62nd minute with injury, whilst Cedric played a key part in Eddie Nketiah’s opening goal.

Cedric spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham, and was expected to leave the club in the summer. However, a deal never materialised, and he has spent the entire season on the fringes.

With Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber injured, Cedric has found himself in the matchday squad in recent weeks, and with Arteta rotating his pack for the PSV game, he was handed a rare opportunity to impress.

Aaron Ramsdale sends Cedric Soares message

Cedric expressed his gratitude for the opportunity on Instagram, as he made his first Champions League appearance since a 2014 appearance for Sporting CP.

“Really happy to play in the Champions League again and get a chance to help the team tonight. First place and on to the next stage!” He posted.

Ramsdale then praised the defender, who fared better than most expected in the back four alongside William Saliba.

“Absolutely loved that tonight mate. Well done,” Ramsdale commented.

Can Cedric Soares be of use to Arsenal this season?

Despite a promising display, Cedric was partially to blame for PSV’s equalising goal, as he did not have the speed to cover for Saliba after the Frenchman missed his interception.

Although a solid professional, and a player with bags of experience, he is not someone that Arsenal should look to use in a meaningful game.

Arsenal’s title charge last season collapsed as Rob Holding came into the side when Saliba picked up an injury, and it shows that having even one defender below the required level can dramatically alter the performances of the whole team.

Cedric is out of contract at the end of the season, and Arsenal should consider any offers for him. It is clear that he needs to leave for the good of his own career, but last night’s return to action did show that he could be a solid player elsewhere if given a chance.