Ageing like fine wine! Thiago Silva sets Chelsea record as he starts at the heart of defence in Newcastle clash

Mauricio Pochettino has handed Silva another start at the grand old age of 39 years and 64 days. The move ensures that Silva writes his name into the history books at Stamford Bridge by becoming the club's oldest-ever outfield player.

Silva may be heading towards the end of his career but he remains a key player for Chelsea. The Brazilian has started all of his team's Premier League games so far this season and was even on target last time out in a 4-4 draw with Manchester City.

Silva beats the record previously held by Dick Spence who featured for Chelsea at the age of 39 years and 57 days in 1947. Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is the club's oldest-ever player overall, having played for the Blues aged 41 in 2014.

Silva's contract expires in the summer and he has hinted he could decide it's time to finally hang up his boots. The defender has also suggested recently he could head into coaching when he decides his playing days are finally over.