Frank Lampard admits Thiago Silva has exceeded expectations at Chelsea
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has been left in awe of Brazilian defender Thiago Silva.
The 36-year-old once again led from the front as the Blues snapped out of a two-match losing streak against West Ham United on Monday. Silva’s powerful header opened the scoring on the night as the Blues eventually won 3-0.
Signed for free in the summer, the veteran defender has proven himself to be a masterful player who defies his old age on a regular basis.
“He’s exceeded (my expectations) probably, but really I shouldn’t have been surprised.”
“I remember playing in the Premier League at 36 and couldn’t play like he is playing week in week out.”
Lampard admits he has been impressed by the defender’s performances despite being 36. To put it in context, the Blues legend reveals he could not perform at the same level at a similar stage in his career.
Lampard at that age was playing for Manchester City and MLS side New York City. His age had caught up with him and he failed to put up the numbers he did at Chelsea.
Making light work of a new challenge
Moving to the Premier League is a difficult proposition for players not used to the frantic and physical style of football deployed in England.
Despite his age, Silva has taken to the English top-flight like a fish to water. He has not just impressed individually but has breathed new life into a Chelsea defence that sorely lacked leadership and organization.
“He has been a great addition on and off the pitch.”
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A player who has won a number of trophies throughout his career, Silva is keen to leave a mark at Stamford Bridge. It would appear the Brazilian is backing his words up on the field as well.