Eduardo was put out of action in February last year after breaking his leg, but with a return to international duty in mid-week, the Croatia international was rearing to get out for the Gunners again.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger opted to keep Robin van Persie on the bench for the start of the FA Cup tie with Cardiff to give the Brazilian his return, and was not disappointed as Eduardo found the net twice during the side's 4-0 victory.

"It was the best day of my life," he said.

"It was a special moment to score, very emotional. I celebrated by kissing my wedding ring - because my wife and daughter and family supported me right through this."

"Everybody is very happy for him. This is the kind of game we love to play, and it was good to see them play with the handbrake off," said Wenger.

"He played a big part in that, and I'm very pleased for him.

"He's been extremely strong mentally. I've never seen one minute of doubt in his mind, not one minute where he said 'I don't want to do this'.

"He is always wanting more. This guy is small but he has the mental strength of a mountain."

It was not all good news for the player though, as he came off in the second half after a slight hamstring complaint.

"He had a slight tightness of the hamstring, but we expect it will be a small thing.

"We'll know at the end of the season how important it (his return) is, but I'm very happy to have him back. He can play as a striker, on the flank, behind the striker, up front on his own. That is important for us."

(soccer365.com)