Silva tipped to shine on Merseyside
January 25, 2012 12:03:55 UK
Didi Hamann feels that David Silva is Manchester City's biggest threat going forward.Liverpool could be in for a long night if David Silva weaves his magic for Manchester City in the Carling Cup semi-final second leg at Anfield tonight, according to retired midfielder Didi Hamann.
The Reds hold a slight 1-0 advantage from the first tie at the Etihad Stadium ahead of City’s visit. Cardiff City await the victor of Wednesday’s tie after they saw off Crystal Palace on penalties on Tuesday, and the two Premier League giants will both be confident of taking the title against Championship opposition, if they can reach the final at Wembley.
Liverpool are 1.36 to reach the final and 2.50 to win on the night at Anfield, while the Reds are 1.11 to go on and win the Wembley final.
City are 2.75 to seal the win at Anfield on Wednesday and former German international Hamann, who played for both sides during his career, believes Silva brings an extra dimension to Roberto Mancini's team that could prove decisive
Silva missed the first game due to an ankle complaint but is expected to start for City on Wednesday and Hamann feels the Spaniard could play a pivotal role in the second-leg.
Hamann said: "With Silva back, City will be more of a threat than they were in the first leg. We all know Liverpool are finding goals hard to come by at the moment and with that in mind I wouldn't be surprised if this one went to extra time.
"Anyone who thought it was over after the first leg is in for a shock. Silva makes a big difference as he gives the players around him more space. He attracts defenders to him, and that gives others space to run into.
"City are always more likely to score with him on the pitch. I expect Liverpool to sit deep as they did in the second half at the Etihad - they will look like the away side, allowing City to have the ball.
"The problem for Liverpool is that with Silva in the team, City have a much better chance of breaking them down."
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