Source: Northern_Echo
Silva seeking a spot
STEVE BRUCE can save millions of pounds from his summer transfer budget by handing Paraguay captain Paulo Da Silva a regular starting berth next season.[LNB] The South American defender believes he is ready to become a major player for the Wearsiders after admitting he struggled to adapt to Premier League football following his move from Mexican side Toluca.[LNB] Bruce intends to make defensive strengthening the priority area of his summer recruitment but Da Silva, who will lead Paraguay in the World Cup, could offer his manager a ready-made solution.[LNB] With John Mensah's ongoing back problem putting a permanent deal for the Ghana international in doubt and Anton Ferdinand earmarked for a full-back role, Bruce faces being dangerously short of centre-back options.[LNB] Da Silva is confident that rather than scour the transfer market, Bruce should hand the 30-year-old a chance to show why he is regarded as a folk hero in his homeland.[LNB] There is no doubt that for those coming from South America, there is a big difference the pace of the league, the way of playing is a lot more pugilistic, said Da Silva, expected to make his third successive start when Sunderland welcome Burnley tomorrow.[LNB] I am actually very pleased with the amount of football I have played this season.[LNB] When I arrived, I did not think I would have this much time on the pitch in my first season of English football because I knew this season was always going to be about adapting.[LNB] But I am definitely looking forward to next season. That is the big one for me and I know everyone will see a big difference in me and I expect to be playing a lot more than this one.[LNB] Hopefully, people over here will know be a lot better because I have a good World Cup.[LNB] But I just know next year will be completely different for me. I will report back to Sunderland, having one year under my belt, with a good pre-season and speaking the language better.[LNB] They will all be advantages to me. I now know what English football is all about.[LNB] Obviously, I was used to playing a lot (in South America).[LNB] When I came here I had to adapt to so many things, although I have always been aware of the fact that you need more time to adapt to this league.[LNB] Having a proper pre-season will make a big difference.[LNB] I will be much better prepared.[LNB] It is important for me to finish this season strongly with Sunderland so I am ready for the World Cup. I want to go there on a high.[LNB]
