Joao Silva considers leaving

The Portuguese youngster is yet to force his way into the senior set-up at Goodison Park. He was snapped up from CD Alves last year and arrived in England with a glowing reputation. The highly-rated striker is still waiting for his first-team bow, though, and took in a loan spell at Uniao Leiria last term. With opportunities still limited with the Toffees, he has returned to Portugal again this season with Vitoria Setubal. Silva is tied into a three-year deal at Everton, but claims he will look for a permanent move elsewhere if David Moyes continues to overlook him. "I will consider leaving Everton if I receive assurances of first-team football elsewhere," he said. "Everton are a big club but I need playing time and a club that has confidence in me and gives me opportunities." Reports suggest Benfica are closely monitoring Silva's situation and could be tempted to make a move.