Mauricio Pochettino has now shared that one Chelsea player has been absolutely crucial for him since he joined the club.
He claimed in his pre-match press conference Thiago Silva’s presence both on and off the pitch makes him an extremely important member of the squad.
Silva has likely featured more this season more than even he would have expected, with him recently turning 39 years of age.
However, he has been close to an ever-present for the manager this season, with injuries playing a part in that so far for a number of reasons.
Levi Colwill has seen the majority of his minutes in the left-back position this season, where he has looked far from his best at times.
Even when the Brazilian was handed a rare rest in the week, it became clear in the second half that his calming presence was required against Crystal Palace.
His passing was also a big boost for the Blues, who eventually won the game 2-1 thanks to a late Noni Madueke penalty.
Pochettino praises Silva
Pochettino today shared just how important he believes the defender is to his squad.
He said: “Thiago [Silva] is an experienced player. It’s not only important on the pitch but outside of the pitch. We see him giving advice to the players. It’s so important to have a player like him.”
It is likely that Silva starts the final game of 2023 when the Blues travel across the capital tomorrow afternoon to face Luton Town.
The manager’s biggest choice will be who will partner the Brazilian at the back. Colwill is likely to still continue on the left.
There will probably be a choice between Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile, with the duo seeming to not work perfectly last time out against Palace.
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