Thiago Silva sends message of thanks to Mauricio Pochettino

Thiago Silva has thanked Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino from pulling him out of his "comfort zone" this season.

The 39-year-old has been an integral part of Chelsea's starting lineup under a number of different managers and has played every minute in the Premier League so far this season under Pochettino, who has stood by Silva in the face of criticism from fans.

For the former PSG and AC Milan defender, Pochettino's biggest impact has been on his fitness. The ageing star is known to take his physical wellbeing incredibly seriously but the new manager appears to have helped Silva reach another level.

"Pochettino has helped me a lot with my fitness," he told The Guardian. "Not that I was complacent but I was in my comfort zone. It looks like everything is fine, and it feels fine, but he managed to get me out of that area."

Silva also praised Pochettino for his willingness to listen, admitting he sees himself as an on-field manager at Stamford Bridge.

"On the pitch I’m already a bit of a manager, right?" he continued. "As I watch the game from the back, I see a lot of situations. And then I warn [the others] about certain situations. I talk to the staff, to Pochettino, so that we don’t make mistakes.

"Sometimes, only us on the pitch realise what’s wrong and what could be done better. And there are situations that those who are off the pitch, with a clear mind, see much better. This relationship is important."

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Despite being a permanent starter under Pochettino, Silva remains uncertain what the future holds. The Brazilian is clearly in the twilight of his career and will see his current Chelsea contract expire next summer.

"The end of my career is approaching and it’s not easy," he told Sky Sports Italia. "I have to think if I retire or if I continue, and where I go. There’s the family, I have two sons who play for Chelsea.

"At the moment I'll take the opportunity to play and make the most of this last year of my contract at Chelsea. But I’m very happy and proud of the career I’ve had, of what I’m doing now at 39 years old.

"I have prepared all my life to make the most of my work, football is my passion. Surely after I retire I will continue in this world, I don’t know how yet."

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