People are too quick to write players off as finished when they hit a bit of patchy form once they're past 29. I remember my (rag) old man repeatedly telling me Giggs was finished when he was 31 because he'd hit a sustained poor patch of form. What did Giggs do at that point? Reinvented his game and embraced yoga (and shag his brother's wife, of course). Played at the highest level for another decade.
It seems players in their early 30's aren't afforded any slack whatsoever for a decline in form by some followers of football. It's a hugely simplistic and flawed way of assessing the game. Footballers don't decline in a linear fashion. Everything is so black and white to some people. That way of thinking is inherently flawed and comes across as a bit moronic tbh.
That would be even more plausible if Silva had even suffered a dip in form. He's been largely excellent this season. Started the season off on fire.
His commitment and work rate have seen him shunted around the pitch as of late and he's dipped a little out of position but centrally he's been fantastic.
It was only a week or so ago he was at his very best vs Arsenal.
I honestly came on this thread expecting fans to waxing lyrical about his recent performances.
The whole dynamic of our game changed yesterday, Silva is brave with the ball, wants the ball constantly and never ever hides.
Yesterday was a prime example. It's often asked when has he 'done a YaYa' and grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck. He did that yesterday. He did that vs Arsenal. He took the game to Liverpool when others went hiding.
Yesterday had it all for a central midfielder, high ball retention, excellent work rate, intelligent movement, aggressive passing and intelligent defensive diligence.
He's not creating directly as he once was, but I bet if you watch most of our goals Silva is integral.
He's now often the pass behind the pass.
His work rate and appitite are as impressive as anyone. He's been fantastic when used right this season.
He'll be here while Pep is here and I'm delighted.
