The former AC Milan and PSG star remains a regular in Mauricio Pochettino’s side despite competition from the likes of Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi, while Chelsea also have Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana amongst their number. Silva is rigorous in his recovery and owns a hyperbaric chamber, and though he needs to be managed, only Conor Gallagher and Colwill have started as many games in the Premier League this term.

Silva has no plans for life after football just yet however, but hinted his time at Chelsea could be coming to an end. He has confidence that he is sustaining his performance for the moment but noted he wants to finish well at Stamford Bridge.

Following Chelsea’s win over Middlesbrough on Tuesday evening, Silva told Hayters: “I don’t have anything scheduled for later. There’s nothing scheduled here. I’m just looking to have fun. We know [my career] is almost over, but it’s not the end yet, so pick the right time.

“I’m still able to maintain a good performance. My numbers are good. This gives me peace of mind to continue. Now, the future belongs to God. Let’s finish well here, this and those four months and see what has to happen going forward. But I’m super relaxed about that.

He added: “[My relationship with the Chelsea fans] is a source of great pride. In such a short time I managed to conquer them in such a passionate way. We can say that, right?

Thiago Silva has enjoyed a close connection to Chelsea suppoters but his current deal is set to expire at the end of the season ( Image: Getty Images)

“It was very, very fast and I am happy every time I play here. It’s different and special and emotional. I know that with each game that ends I have a feeling that it’s ending, so that makes me a little sad. But happy with the performance on the field, which is the most important.”

Silva has been regularly linked to a return to Brazil with Fluminense but his sons, Isago and Iago currently play within Chelsea’s academy. The central defender has previously stated that Isago has a two-year deal at Cobham until 2025, that could see him remain in London however.

After being named Chelsea’s player of the season last term, Silva said: “Bit by bit, we are feeling more and more like Londoners. The whole family have fallen in love with Chelsea.

“My sons, Isago and Iago, both play for Chelsea. Isago has extended his contract here for the next two seasons, which means we are going to be here for two years. We just hope it’s more!”