With “some injuries to key players”, Silva confirmed that they would “improve some things” in the transfer window if they could “add quality” as the club “cannot stand still”.

Why his team is so difficult to beat: “We are competitive. We are a good team. We have a clear style of play and are really competitive. To be competitive at this level, you have to bring everything together and show quality week after week. Some draws should have meant wins and three points, but games are tough at this level.

He added: “We know what we are capable of. We have to be happy with the season so far. We definitely should have gotten more points, but we need to continue to be competitive and adjust the things we were penalized for.”

Silva has “told the players that their biggest goal is this competition (FA Cup)” and continued: “All clubs should look at this cup as it deserves. It’s a good competition in this country that everyone loves. The final is something incredible. And if you can be there, it is one of the greatest moments you can experience as a manager or footballer in this country.”

The Fulham boss said it had been “challenging” taking charge at opponents Watford before his sacking, but he still had a “connection with some players and staff” which was a “good feeling”.

On meeting his former player Tom Cleverley in the opposite dugout: “He was a top player and very important to us at that time and I’m really pleased to see him doing so well in his managerial career. I always support him and his ambition.” And we wish Tom all the best because he deserves everything in his career. However, let’s hope that tomorrow will be our evening, not his.

On midfielder Tom Cairney’s TV appearance on Monday: “He enjoyed a few moments of seeing and analyzing the game in a different way than just as a football player. I saw parts of it, but not all of it. I’ve had conversations with him and he is.” It’s good to spend some time analyzing things in a different way. The most important thing is that he can enjoy other parts of the game as he is the type of player who loves football.