Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva was in excellent form once again as the Blues cruised to a relatively comfortable win over Rennes in the Champion League last night.
The Brazilian helped the Blues keep their fifth clean sheet in six games, but it was his long-range passing that caught the attention of a number of supporters on Twitter:
He’s just like JT with them slick passes ?
— Biplav (@Bip_Lav) November 4, 2020
I’d give him an extension – he’s been superb so far this season and his influence is showing on the team
— Vialli's Chelsea FC (@VialliChelseaFC) November 4, 2020
He breaks lines, which none of other cb do
— Aman Mehta (@AmanMeh40540351) November 4, 2020
He just oozes class. What a signing he was!
— Liam. (@LWFChels) November 4, 2020
Better passer than jorginho all day
— Nicholas Benedict (@mailme2x) November 4, 2020
Give him a 2 year contract extension already ffs
— EVERYTHING CHELSEA (@YashHazard1) November 4, 2020
He’s actually unbelievable
— chris abraham (@chrisabraham91) November 4, 2020
Lampard should just manage him well. He doesn't have to play all games.
— ? (@chillydre__) November 4, 2020
And presence. Silva goes off and our backline looks absolutely all over the place immediately, it is so telling.
— Jimmy O'Hare (@JJEvans67) November 4, 2020
Silva be deep lying playmaking defender
— Nana Lebron (@NanaLebron4) November 4, 2020
Silva is simply a top-class centre-half both on and off the ball and it seems like manager Frank Lampard has played a blinder in bringing in the former Paris Saint-Germain captain on a free transfer.
Due to his age, he will need to be protected and it was not a surprise when he was replaced by Antonio Rudiger with 22 minutes left last night. The team were already 3-0 to the good and they are playing on Saturday against Sheffield United.
Keeping Silva fit could prove pivotal in ensuring Chelsea have a successful season as he has had a massive impact on the team’s defensive organisation, as well as giving them another dimension in terms of distribution from the back.