Silva still getting first-class service from restless Joao

FULHAM boss Marco Silva has witnessed no change in Joao Palhinha.

That is despite the midfielder’s claims his failed transfer to Bayern Munich “really affected” both him and his family.

Palhinha also outlined his desire to play at a “higher level” in the same damning interview during the international break.

But first, Silva wants his fellow Portuguese to continue improving before his future is inevitably reassessed this winter.

“Joao said what’s inside of him,” said Silva, who will be without the suspended Palhinha for tomorrow’s clash with Wolves.

“What I’ve been seeing from Joao from the day after that tough period during the last week of the market was that he was ready to train, ready to work hard and ready to help the team. Of course he wants to perform better.

“I want him to perform better but one thing that nobody can complain about is his attitude and commitment.”

Silva was rather abrupt when quizzed on whether Bayern’s ongoing interest in Palhinha could prove to be a lingering distraction.

He said: “For me it’s no distraction because I know what I will do and I know what is my job. I know what to expect from all of the players in the football club and that is the same.”

The visit of Wolves could prove to be the perfect acid test for Fulham and how they may potentially cope without their toughtackling talisman.

But Silva is simply demanding a collective response from his side after suffering back-toback defeats for the first time this season.

He added: “Joao has always been playing ever since he arrived in this football club.

“He’s an important player for us.”