Guardiola backs Silva to shine for years

MANCHESTER, United Kingdom: David Silva has all the attributes to cement his place as one of Manchester City’s leading lights for years to come, according to his manager Pep Guardiola.

It is believed Silva, 31, is close to agreeing a new deal with the Premier League leaders as his current contract expires at the end of next season.

Guardiola believes the Spain midfielder has shown the physical strength and durability to be able to cope with life in the Premier League for so long.

“What I like the most with David, being a guy who is a little bit serious in his life and a little bit shy, is the fact that he has survived so well in this league,” he said.

“I like how competitive and aggressive he is in winning duels. He’s a guy who is normally more technical, and more about the pass.

“I admire him a lot because he suits Spanish football perfectly but he’s survived for a long time with the speed, the weather, the tough conditions here.

“He looks skinny and he looks like he doesn’t run too much, but he’s never injured and every three days he’s fit and there.

“It doesn’t matter if we play an important game, a friendly game, bigger stages, or small stages, he’s always ready.

“I like the guys who are like this - strong and want to play but I like guys who are not afraid to play. With David you have that a lot.”

Despite the headline-grabbing performances from Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane, Guardiola believes it is Silva who is the perfect example of what he wants in a player.

Silva is now playing under his third City manager, having starred for Manuel Pellegrini and signed for Roberto Mancini in 2010. - AFP