Fulham boss Silva hails Willian ahead of derby clash

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Fulham boss Marco Silva believes veteran winger Willian is back to his best ahead of Monday’s derby against his former club Chelsea.

The 35-year-old has been a revelation since signing on a free transfer last year following difficult spells at Arsenal and Corinthians.

The Brazilian came close to exiting Craven Cottage this summer after a huge offer came his way from Saudi Arabian side Al Shabab, and he also held talks with Nottingham Forest before finally signing a new one-year deal.

He was a surprise inclusion in a much-changed Whites side that defeated Norwich in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, having played 90 minutes in last weekend’s 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace, but Silva feels he is now up to full speed following a disrupted pre-season.

“I played with him against Norwich as I think he needed more games,” Silva said.

“I know him really well and it wasn’t the best pre-season for him. I know from last season that although he had no pre-season as he only arrived late in August, but he at least came from a competition in Brazil with Corinthians.

“But I told him 15 or 20 days ago that I am finally starting to see the best of him in training sessions. He is so sharp, so good, he is a top player, a class player.

“It is up to me to and to him as well to keep him fit and playing with a smile on his face like he is right now and I am really pleased because we need the best of Willian.

“He is a great example to any player of this team and any other wingers because it’s not just what he does with the ball but without it as well.”