Premier League legend David Silva has backed the English clubs to go deep in the Europa League despite mixed results in the knockout stage.
Aston Villa take a one-goal lead into their last-16 second leg with Lille on Thursday night and will fancy reaching the quarter finals after an Ollie Watkins winner in France last week.
But Nottingham Forest face a sterner test when travelling to Midtjylland a goal down, with the priority securing survival in the league.
Former Manchester City midfielder Silva believes the pair will always spell danger for opponents on the continent – and suggested both Liverpool and Newcastle can earn positive results in their Champions League second legs.
Tottenham host Atletico Madrid but are 5-2 down from the first leg in the Spanish capital.
‘I can tell you how they are seen in Spain,’ Silva said. ‘They are very tough teams, with a lot of rhythm, and it’s difficult to play against them. That’s how they are seen in Spain.
David Silva has backed Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa to go deep into the Europa League
He says that people in Spain see English clubs as ‘difficult to play against’ despite their struggles in Europe this season
‘It’s true that now in the Champions League they haven’t had perhaps the first half as expected, but I’m sure they will give everything.’
Silva also lauded former team mate Vincent Kompany, who will seal a last eight tie with Real Madrid if Bayern Munich avoid disaster against Atalanta.
Bayern lead 6-1 going into the second leg and Silva insisted that he always knew the ex-City captain would move into management.
‘He analyses everything very precisely, has a way of communicating with the players, and is doing an outstanding job,’ Silva added to TZ Munchen.
‘I’m very happy for him. He has everything under control, he thinks deeply about things, and works incredibly hard. Vincent always had the makings of a coach.’
- David Silva was speaking on behalf of Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s Real Club Legends campaign, which this season gives back to supporters by offering special matchday experiences in the UEFA Europa League. To watch David’s episode, please click here.
