Silva set for next test

In less than eight weeks, Silva has been crowned a Premier League champion for Manchester City and a European championship winner and history maker with Spain.

The twin accolades confirm the 26-year-old to be at the peak of his powers.

It represents a significant step forward from two years ago, when he was part of the Spain squad that lifted the World Cup for the first time but featured in just two games, for a sum total of 66 minutes.

This time around, Silva has been a central presence.

It was his goal that sent Spain on its way to a remarkable 4-0 final win over Italy in Kiev that saw them become the first side to triumph in three consecutive tournaments, including the World Cup.

Silva has much more to achieve - and that means a sustained tilt at next season's Champions League.

"I want to have my vacation because it has been a long, hard season for me," said Silva.

"But once I go back to City, I know I will be fully refreshed because I want to win more trophies with them.

"The owners of the club have spent a lot of money bringing good players to the club. We have already started to win titles, including the Premier League.

"Now I hope to show we have the quality to do something in the Champions League."

Silva admitted he could scarcely believe what he has achieved over the past few weeks.

A star performer in City's first championship for 44 years, to then back it up in such fine style in Poland and Ukraine represented an incredible effort.

"I never thought anything like this would be possible," he said.

"Of course, every time you go out onto the pitch you try your hardest, then at the end you find out where you have got to.

"But you never really think about the possibility of winning both.

"I didn't play much at the World Cup. This time I did a lot more.

"I played every game, so I am very happy with my contribution. My goal helped the team towards an easy win.

"It has been a great few weeks for me and it feels superb."