Fulham No.10 Tom Cairney has now revealed that David Silva – who left Manchester City in 2020 – is his toughest opponent.
The 32-year-old made the comment when speaking to Sky Sports.
So, what did Tom Cairney say about David Silva? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the Spaniard departed the Etihad Stadium and the Premier League in 2020 after spending a decade at Manchester City.
Nevertheless, Silva still lives in the mind of Cairney even after all those years.
The Scotland international said: “I would say David Silva. Not exactly in a one on one (physically) but I just feel like, he appears there, and then he’s gone. You can’t get near him.”
Cairney has faced the 37-year-old on three separate occasions throughout his career.
The Fulham captain first encountered Silva while playing for Blackburn in an FA Cup Third Round clash back in the 2013/14 campaign, which ended 1-1 at Ewood Road.
Cairney then faced the Spanish magician while playing for Fulham in a Premier League clash at Craven Cottage in the 2018/19 season, losing 2-0.
Their third and final meeting came in the FA Cup once again, this time a Fourth Round tie at the Etihad Stadium, which Manchester City won 4-0.
Judging by the results alone, it is no wonder Cairney hated facing Silva – he failed to win a single one of his three matches against the Manchester City legend.
Manchester City fans surely miss David Silva
Despite Pep Guardiola currently overseeing a treble winning squad, there must be thousands of Manchester City fans who miss having Silva in the starting XI.
Merlin – as he was affectionately nicknamed thanks to his metaphorical wizardry – was one of the most entertaining footballers of his generation, making 436 appearances in total for Manchester City.
Silva scored 77 goals and provided 140 assists in those outings.
No matter how successful Manchester City continue to be in future, supporters won’t forget Silva for helping to kickstart this golden period.
