Journalist Mike McGrath has stated that Chelsea players were actually pushing for Mauricio Pochettino to start one man against Sheffield United.
He told The Telegraph that their wishes were acknowledged as the player in question was named in the starting side for the Premier League.
Chelsea failed to make it consecutive wins again in the top flight as they were held to a 2-2 draw at Bramall Lane.
Noni Madueke lashed in what looked like the winner with a fierce drive from the right, with him proving to be the real spark for the visitors yesterday.
Silva back in the Chelsea side
This was after a goal for Thiago Silva, with him being named in the starting side for the first time in nine games.
He was also nowhere to be seen at Stamford Bridge in the thrilling 4-3 win against Manchester United, despite the fact Pochettino had been looking to sub on numerous defenders from the bench.
Chelsea players pushed for Silva to start
However, the Brazilian was back amongst the starters and brought an air of experience his teammates had clearly been looking for, with McGrath claiming that the players had pushed for this.
He said: “Thiago Silva has returned to the Chelsea team after almost two months out of the team.
“The Brazilian, 39, was on the bench for five games but has come back for today’s Premier League fixture at Sheffield United. He also previously missed three matches with a groin injury.
“With Mauricio Pochettino’s team conceding two or more goals while Thiago has been on the bench for five games, it is understood there was some support within the first-team squad for a return.”
With Silva likely being in the final few months of his time at Chelsea, it is perhaps expected that the manager is looking to build towards a future that doesn’t involve the Brazilian who Conor Gallagher described as‘massive’.
However, Pochettino should not forget just how much experience Silva has at the top of the game, and how useful that can be for defensive options who are all young and inexperienced.