Spaniard ‘forgets’ pain in home life to inspire win
David Silva has revealed how Manchester City’s Premier League title chase is helping him stay focused during a difficult time off the field.
Silva has endured an emotional rollercoaster after son Mateo was born prematurely in December, recently returning to the City team after being granted leave for personal reasons.
The Spaniard was the man of the match with two goals at the Bet365 Stadium to take Pep Guardiola’s team a step closer to the title.
And when asked why his form was so good, despite his off-field problems, he said: “I don’t know. I think when I play football I forget everything, it’s good for me to play. I know in my private life it is not a very happy moment, but my son is fighting.”
Silva’s double extended City’s lead at the top to 16 points and they only require two more victories to clinch the title.
Those games are against Everton and Manchester United, which raises the enticing prospect of the leaders claiming the crown at home to their bitter enemies.
Vincent Kompany, the captain, said: “Everybody in the blue side of Manchester knows that that is a once in a lifetime opportunity but, steady, it won’t be handed to us.”
Guardiola admitted City are now on the verge of being crowned champions, but refused to be drawn on the prospects of beating Jose Mourinho to secure his first English title. “I understand [it is] for the fans but the important thing is to be champions. When, where, it doesn’t matter,” he said.
Stoke manager Paul Lambert insists his team can still survive. “This game was never going to define our season. They are as good a team as I’ve seen in a long time,” he said.