2) David Silva
The silent backstage operator who never quite gets his due, Silva is the crucial link between Busquets and Iniesta in the centre of the park and Morata and Nolito in the attacking third.
The diminutive 30-year-old has the grace of a swan and the agility of a Thompson’s gazelle around the opponent’s box. A key member of the attacking triumvirate for Spain, Silva was the only member of the squad who has put up a consistent performance for La Roja in the 3 group matches so far.
While others were distinctly underwhelming, Silva put in an eye-catching performance against Croatia. With an average of 2.7 shots per game, per whoscored.com, Silva has not been shy to pull the trigger.
Statistics perhaps do not do justice to Silva’s contribution on the field. A cursory glance will reveal he has 0 assists, goals, or key passes. But Silva’s game involves a great many aspects not covered by statistics. If key runs to open up space for willing runners in Jordi Alba or Juanfran were a statistic, Silva would be topping the charts.
His ability to open up space in the opponents half with quick darting runs and rapid one-twos are a cause of significant bewilderment in opponents. Italy will be hoping for him to have an off day tonight.
