Everton defender Mason Holgate has barely played in 2018 so far.
Holgate has struggled for game time in 2018, after picking up an injury towards the back end of last campaign.
But there is a feeling that he could make a big impact at Everton now Silva is in charge.
And Holgate claims that he has learnt a lot from the Portuguese boss’s first few sessions.
He said: “Training has been really good. I think all the boys have been enjoying it. It’s a lot of football-based fitness so we’re feeling sharp.
“When a new gaffer comes in, there’s always different things he wants but we’ve worked a lot on shape in the last two weeks and I think it’s only going to help us as a team and as a defensive unit. I’ve learned a lot.
“Pre-season is all about getting sharp for Wolves in the first game of the season. But with all the football work we’ve done, we’re two weeks in and I feel really sharp and feel really fit. From looking at training, I think a lot of the boys do. Everyone’s touches are back and we’re looking good. I think when Wolves comes we’ll be ready for it.”
Silva’s focus on helping Everton’s defence may come as a shock, as he is famed for being an attacking manager.
At his previous clubs, Silva has liked to get his side playing on the front foot, and that is almost certain to be his long-term aim at Everton.
But Silva’s decision to focus on shape and tightening his side up at the back in the initial weeks of Everton’s training show where their problems lied last campaign.
The Toffees’ defence struggled to keep clean sheets, and Silva will want a more solid foundation to build upon this time around.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
