‘Incredible’ Silva will decide his future – Potter

Graham Potter has paid tribute to Thiago Silva but says the Chelsea defender’s future will ultimately be decided by the player himself.

Silva, 38, has been outstanding for the Blues and his contract runs until the end of the season.

Boss Potter was asked at a press conference on the eve of Chelsea’s Champions League game away to AC Milan if he would like the Brazilian to sign a new deal.

“I think the decision is Thiago’s,” said Potter, who also confirmed that Silva has now fully recovered from a recent heavy cold.

Silva moved to Stamford Bridge in 2020 and his performances have established him as a fans favourite.

Potter said: “He’s been incredibly impressive on and off the pitch.

“He’s a leader, a top professional and a top person. He’s been a joy to work with.

“He’s an incredible person and incredible player – the performance levels he can reach and the amount of respect he has throughout the game is just incredible.

“What I can do is just try to help him enjoy his football here, be part of a winning team, and then all the other stuff is up to him and the club to talk about.”

Potter was also asked about Milan forward Rafael Leao, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea.

Potter replied: “You can see his quality. You can see what he brings. But I think he’s part of a strong unit, a strong team and a strong club and we respect that.”

Meanwhile, the injury-plagued N’Golo Kante has suffered a setback in his recovery from a hamstring problem.