Fulham boss Marco Silva by no means had any doubts Willian would show himself a key member of the group.
The 34-year-old was on the scoresheet as Fulham beat west London rivals Chelsea at Craven Cottage on Thursday evening to report a fifth straight win in all competitions.
The veteran Brazilian confronted questions over his future after leaving Arsenal for a spell again in his homeland with Corinthians after which signing a one-year cope with Fulham.
Silva, although, was at all times assured the midfielder’s expertise would shine by way of.
“Every week I repeat myself, but I didn’t have doubts about what he can do for us,” the Fulham boss mentioned.
“We had a good feeling from him and he got the same from our football club, the staff and team-mates.
“The quality was always there, and he is a top, top player.”
The Fulham supervisor advised a press convention: “It was important again for him on Thursday night.
“He would have had mixed feelings for sure, because he played for seven years with a blue shirt and now he is playing for the neighbours. He is enjoying the moment.”
While Fulham are out there for recent expertise through the January window, Silva insists the present group have what it takes to carry their very own within the high flight.
“We always try to have competition inside (the squad), because that is the best way for us to grow as a football club,” the Portuguese coach mentioned.
“When the competition is harder, in the training sessions, the players have to do their maximum every single day.
“For sure, it will be more headaches for me to take the decisions (for the team), but it will be much better for us and also make the players better to grow as individuals as well.
“If we can find players with different profile, who can do different things on the pitch, then that is always important.”
Top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic shall be obtainable once more at Newcastle on Sunday following suspension, however defender Antonee Robinson will serve his personal one-match ban after amassing a fifth reserving through the Chelsea recreation.
Silva has been impressed with the “brilliant job” finished by supervisor Eddie Howe since taking up at St James’ Park.
“Of course they signed top, top, top players and spent a big amount in the transfer market, they have this capacity and Eddie has to be pleased about that,” Silva mentioned.
“But one of the main things that I like is they play with a high intensity on and off the ball as well, then can be so direct.
“Playing in their stadium with their crowd behind them, it will be another very good test for us.”
