Some clubs are now being linked with free agents who were unable to find a place to play. Arsenal could now call on their own free signing if the need arises too.
Jurrien Timber's injury is perhaps one of the silver linings for Cedric's availability. Had he left and Arsenal brought in nobody then the depth at right-back would have been even thinner than it is now.
Granted, Cedric isn't on the level of the likes of Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu, but he has been praised for his off-field benefit to the group and experience in the squad. There's been some good and bad things throughout his time with the club and he was signed by the current coach which does count for something.
Cedric played for the Under-21s last year when minutes in preseason were not forthcoming. Arteta praised this at the time, as a testament to the player's attitude.
Arteta said when asked about his inclusion with the youth side: "With Cedric, it was more a case of giving him the option. He wasn't in the squad last week, he hasn't played many minutes in pre-season.
"We have to give the option for them. He said straight away that he wanted to play, and you can see the attitude that he has."
Whether or not he will repeat this again this season remains to be seen. The PL2 system has seen a major reform this year with the two divisions merging into one with a Swiss-style format over 20 game weeks – whether there’s room or reason for Cedric remains to be seen.
Players like Reuell Walters will be looking for opportunities at the senior level, and it will be interesting to see if a budding star like the defender would get the nod over Cedric. Time will tell.
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