Kaizer Chiefs striker Flavio Silva has addressed the criticism he faced earlier this season following a frustrating goal drought.
The 29-year-old Guinea-Bissau forward has rediscovered his scoring touch in recent weeks after a difficult spell between January and February. Overall, Silva has scored nine goals in 25 appearances across all competitions this season.
Despite his mid-season struggles, the Chiefs striker has continued to earn praise for his intelligent positioning, work rate, and overall contribution to the team.
During his lean run, Silva came under scrutiny for failing to get into dangerous areas and was criticised for a perceived lack of scoring instinct.
However, the forward has taken the criticism in stride, insisting it comes with the territory of being a professional footballer.
“For me, the criticism is not personal; it’s okay. It means I’m not playing well, and I can improve,” Silva said.
“I know the supporters will greet me, respect me, and give me love. So for me, it is no problem. It is part of the game.”
Chiefs striker Flavio Silva speaks
Silva emphasised that his primary focus remains on the team rather than individual accolades.
“It’s always about the team. I tell my teammates that I can score a lot of goals, but I’m not Messi or Ronaldo. I’m not going to dribble past three or four players to score,” he explained.
“I make my movements, my teammates find me, and it’s always about the team,” the Chiefs striker added.
Silva joined Chiefs in July and has quickly emerged as one of the club’s standout signings. His current contract runs until the end of next season, with an option to extend for a further year.