Thiago Silva’s bond with Chelsea fans continues to grow with the defender clearly moved by travelling supporters after their Carabao Cup semi-final win over Tottenham.
Silva was a second-half substitute in the 1-0 win, helping the Blues close out a 3-0 victory on aggregate and progress to the final of the competition.
Silva went over to greet his supporters post-matchGetty
And in some touching post-match scenes, the 37-year-old Brazilian was clearly moved as he received applause from the away end.
Chelsea fans were in full-voice chanting ‘Oh Thiago Silva’ following their win over rivals Spurs, and their star defender stuck around to soak up the adulation.
Bowing to the crowd in appreciation, Silva’s career has seen a late renaissance, comprehensively casting away the doubts over his signing.
Silva has since signed two contract extensions at Stamford Bridge, keeping him there until 2023, and after the most recent one he paid tribute to supporters.
Silva then looked almost emotional as his name rang out 
He bowed to thank the travelling fans
“To play here with Chelsea is a real pleasure. I never thought I would play for three years here in this great club, so I’m very happy to stay for another season,” he said.
“I will continue to give everything for this club and for the supporters, who have always been by my side since I arrived.”
Silva joined Chelsea from PSG in 2020 on a one year deal at the age of 34, with many doubting the signing of an older player who often had injury problems, playing 30 or less league games in each of his eight seasons in France.
Silva went from a painful Champions League final defeat against BayernHandout – Getty 
To winning the competition with Chelsea
Chelsea too seemed risk averse signing Silva on a one year deal, but just a season after Champions League heartbreak for PSG, he was lifting the trophy for the first time with Chelsea.
The Brazil captain has become an integral part of Thomas Tuchel’s three centre back system, complimenting the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Cristensen and Trevoh Chalobah perfectly.
And with his minutes managed by Tuchel, it’s hard to see Silva being deemed surplus to requirements any time soon despite many expecting him to be heading towards retirement.
Now heading towards his third cup final for the Blues in less than two years, some may claim the defender has reached legendary status already, and that was clearly the message felt at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday night.
