The new Arsenal are epitomised by recent Cedric performances

Team work makes the dream work! Due to the complications inherent in the January transfer window and Mikel Arteta’s pledge to bring “only the best people” to the club, Arsenal will likely have to expend their modest resources in pursuit of a strong finish to the Premier League season.

And nothing epitomises the concerted effort required quite like the recent contributions of Cedric Soares.

Eye rolls and deep sighs are almost standard procedure whenever Cedric features in the starting lineup, not least because of the reliability offered by first choice Takehiro Tomiyasu when available.

However, the persistent fitness struggles afflicting our summer signing have seen the Portuguese star get an extended run in the side lately and he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

The spirit Mikel Arteta demands at Arsenal is exemplified by Cedric’s application and character in recent Premier League outings

Limited to just four Premier League appearances during the first half of the campaign, Cedric has started Arsenal’s last three matches – including the dramatic win at home to Wolves last week – and fitted in seamlessly on each occasion, consequently helping the Gunners to capitalise on the inconsistent form of their European rivals.

While often recognised for his excellent delivery skills, he has also impressed via other means in these games, most notably by assuming advanced positions to overload and stretch the dogged defensive set ups we have encountered, as well as remaining vigilant to thwart potential transitions as we pushed on in search of attacking rewards.

This series of encouraging performances has even caused some proponents of meritocracy to suggest he deserves to start at Vicarage Road on Sunday. But Tomiyasu is still ahead in the pecking order and, although he has dutifully fulfilled his deputising role, such cameos are the extent of his current remit and he should be stood down if his teammate can return this weekend.

In the candid words of a certain Roy Keane, he could be said to be simply “doing his job”, and perhaps such diligence and ability to follow instructions is the least we can expect from a well-paid professional footballer, especially when they are playing with the added incentive of securing a place in Portugal’s World Cup squad later this year.

Nevertheless, his honest efforts have gone beyond the expectations of many, and his unwavering commitment to the side – even when out of favour – embodies the spirit and dedication Arteta has worked so earnestly to ingrain in the squad over the course of the rebuilding project.