‘Much better player’ – some fans believe Nottingham Forest man is an upgrade on 22-year-old
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Tiago Silva was outstanding for Nottingham Forest in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Derby County and supporters believe he’s already surpassed Joao Carvalho in terms of ability and influence in the squad. The 26-year-old joined on a three-year deal from Feirense and looks a brilliant acquisition.
Silva has made 18 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring and creating three goals. The Portuguese u21 international didn’t make a big impact at the start of the campaign, but he’s putting in standout performances now.
https://twitter.com/12bw1312/status/1194528697350545409?s=20
https://twitter.com/LiamKFootball/status/1194327223987310593?s=20
People giving Carvalho a lot of stick at the minute. Biggest problem for me is not his ability or suitability – it’s simply his work rate. Thiago Silva makes himself available for every ball – he literally craves to have the ball. Carvalho for me, is hiding a little bit #NFFC
— Alex Papadopoulos (@APapadopoulos1) November 13, 2019
I think it’s great we have two little magicians. Silva started slow IMO but really beginning to shine. Means Carvalho can come back slowly and improves options. Carvalho helped hold the ball late on v Derby showing glimpses of his form
— Mark Hefter (@statts1971) November 13, 2019
We’re lucky to have both. Silva has gradually settled into this league since his move in the summer and looks great. Carvalho must also be afforded time to settle back after the injury. Plus he must be learning off an older head in Silva. Long season & both will prove their worth
— Jon Rush (@ididntrealise) November 13, 2019
Against Derby, Silva played for 89 minutes and was arguably the best player on the park. As per WhoScored, he made 74 touches, won one aerial duel, created two chances, had three shots with 33% accuracy, made two clearances, completed 75.5% of his 49 passes, made three interceptions, whipped in five crosses, made four tackles, drew two fouls and made one successful dribble.
Is Tiago Silva a better all-round player than Joao Carvalho?
Carvalho has a lot to prove at Forest. He scored and created 12 goals in 38 Championship games last season but was substituted on (10) and off (16) in 68% of his appearances. Four of the 22-year-old’s nine league appearances this season came from the bench, and the remaining five resulted in him being substituted.
Silva is certainly surpassing him for now, but both could be useful players for Forest.