The 2016/17 season could be seen by Cedric as a significant one in his career. After winning the European Championships with Portugal in the summer, he returned to Southampton hoping to claim the right back spot as his own under the new management.
The German born right back arrived on the south coast from Sporting Lisbon, for a fee believed to be around £5 million. A Sporting youth product, Cedric made 91 appearances overall for the Portuguese side, winning the Taca De Portugal in the 2014/15 season.
The Portugal international signed for Southampton as a replacement for Nathaniel Clyne, big boots to fill in terms of performance and popularity. Cedric managed 24 appearances in his opening season with the Saints, battling Cuco Martina for a starting berth.
The 16/17 season began for Cedric as it did for the entire Southampton squad. Underwhelming. Opening the season with draws at home to both Watford and Sunderland, sandwiched by a 2-0 defeat to Manchester United. Things looked rather bleak for Cedric and his team mates.
Cedric then sustained a foot injury in early October that would keep him out of the team for a long spell. He missed a total of nine games over that period. Although this injury seemed to be the catalyst in which sparked his upturn in form.
Since returning from said injury, Cedric began to put in some stellar performances. Despite Southampton’s form fluctuating, Cedric did himself proud by consistently offering himself as an attacking outlet whilst protecting the defence with a never-say-die attitude.
Cedric impressing
Statistically this season Cedric has surpassed his first campaign with Saints. Appearing in 6 more games, keeping 4 more clean sheets and assisting 3 goals. Proof of his defensive capabilities can be seen by his 77% tackle success rate and a 150 recoveries over the course of the year.
Despite the odd lapse in concentration, he has become a key piece of the defensive unit. Whilst consistently bombing down the wing to deliver crosses. Even prompting Southampton fans to chant his name to the tune of Oasis hit “She’s Electric”.
His form this season has not gone unnoticed. Rumours spread in the second half of the season that Barcelona were interested in acquiring his services. An accolade any player would be proud of. Rumours of a £25million move to the Catalan giants were closely followed by rumours of interest from Chelsea.
Although Southampton fans will be hoping they can keep hold of arguably one of the leagues most accomplished right backs. The sky is the limit for the 25 year old defender.
My verdict
Cedric has been a solid performer in a team that has performed way below par this season. He has at times excited and frustrated. Showing his immense quality time and time again. Showing great work ethic and passion for the game. One of the few players this season who have made significant improvements to their game. Solid, but not spectacular and for that I’m giving him a seven.
Cedric Soares – 7/10