Chelsea news: I’ve kept up my standard at Stamford Bridge, says Thiago Silva

For Thiago Silva, age is just another number. The Brazilian centre-back might be 37 years of age but he still continues to be a reliable player in the backline for his team. Be it in a back three or a back four, Silva has led the defence with example. His numerous years of experience from playing in various leagues across the world has helped the defender understand the game better, which helps him play at the top level even in his late 30s. In his second campaign at Stamford Bridge, the centre-back keeps getting better with every passing game as he continues to be an influential figure under Thomas Tuchel. 

In the Premier League, Chelsea next travel to Norwich City. Ahead of that match, Silva has opened up about his longevity in the game. “Practically everyone who knows me is aware how much work I put in to perform well, as I’ve been doing, and the sacrifices I make,” Thiago Silva was quoted as saying by the club’s website. “Things are worth it when you do it with passion, love and dedication.

“So many people had their doubts if I’d be able to play to the same standard here as I did at PSG but I never had any doubts of how I’d perform for the club. I’ve kept up my standard here at Chelsea, bearing in mind it’s the best league in the world.”

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Thiago Silva on his vast amount of experience

Thiago Silva has a vast amount of experience, spending years playing at the highest level in Italy, France and at the international level. “I’m not sure how to quantify it but I think that the experience gained over your career means that you can prepare yourself better and better,” he explained.

“If when I was 20 I had the same level of experience I do today, I’d be a completely different player, combined with a level of strength and pace much greater than I have today. You get experience over time, meaning that you can improve as a person and it gives you this understanding on how to play better.”

Thiago Silva on N’Golo Kante

Thiago Silva then shifted his attention to teammate N’Golo Kante and praised the midfielder for putting in a tireless effort. He also praised those players who constantly put pressure on the opponents but are rarely get noticed for their contributions.

“He’s exceptional, a player who gives the team the chance to win the ball back more and with greater ease,” he told about the Frenchman. “That’s because the pressure he puts on the player in possession forces the player to rush his decision-making. Maybe they’ll play a long ball which is misplaced so at the back I can win the ball.

“To be honest, people don’t really analyse players who pressure people in possession but these kinds of players are fantastic, especially for me playing behind and theoretically ready to cover. I run more from one side to the other, even as part of a back three, but often I win the ball back because these players put good pressure on the opponent in possession.”