Cedric Soares reveals he turned down interest from elsewhere to join Arsenal

Defender Cedric Soares is pleased to finally be involved after an interrupted start to his Arsenal career.

The 28-year-old arrived on loan from Southampton on the final day of the January transfer window.

Soares made the move permanent by signing a four-year contract at the Emirates Stadium on June 23.

However, due to injuries either side of the coronavirus lockdown, the right back had to wait 152 days to make his debut, coming on as a substitute and scoring in the 4-0 victory at Norwich.

The Portugal international has made two further appearances and he is keen to make up for lost time at Arsenal.

He told Sky Sports: 'I had another option for a move, but there was never any doubt when Arsenal appeared. It's something I really wanted.

'He has been great with everyone and given the club and the players the energy that we needed. He has been very, very positive with all the players and I think everyone is improving and working harder.

'He has clear ideas and he tries to be very fair with everyone. He respects us all, first as people, and after that as footballers, which is very important.

'This is a process and it will take time, but I think in the future the team will have better and better performances. I hope he stays at the club for a long time because I think he will be a great manager.'