Silva delighted to have Tevez back for title run-in

Midfielder David Silva has welcomed Carlos Tevez’s return to Manchester City and backed the Argentinian to play a key role in the title race.

Silva met Tevez at the training ground yesterday morning as the process of reintegrating the striker into the Premier League leaders’ first-team squad began.

Manager Roberto Mancini has said Tevez could be back playing in two or three weeks after accepting an apology from the 28-year-old for his recent conduct.

Tevez’s immediate task is now to recover match-fitness after returning from his unauthorised three-month break in Argentina.

Silva said: “I just saw him this morning for the first time at training.

“I just wished him all the very best before he left. He was a very important player for us. If he is back with us, then perfect.

“Carlos is a great player and if he is physically fit he would be a very good player to have.

“But it will be down to the coaches and the technical team to decide who plays and who doesn’t.”

Silva expects Tevez to fit straight back in.

The 26-year-old said: “Carlos has shown before he has great character and determination and for someone like him it would be easier to get into form than for others.

“It is very important to have those four great strikers with us.

“It makes it easier for the people playing behind them.

“We all know they are great players and it could be an important factor to help us win the title race.”

City’s eagerly-anticipated clash against rivals Manchester United has now been put back two days to Monday, April 30 for TV and many are predicting it could prove the title decider.

Silva said: “If we get to that match with the same difference in points, it could be decisive.

“But we have to get there first. We have to win every match first and then see.”