Manchester City fans are planning to give David Silva a big send-off on his final home game for the Blues.
The little Spanish wizard will be denied the farewell his ten brilliant years of service deserve, as his final season will end without supporters in the ground due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Blues have already said that Silva, who has been in imperious form this season, will be brought back to the Etihad Stadium at a future date so he can be presented to fans, many of whom acclaim him as the greatest player in their history.
But fans’ groups have got together to organise a reception for Silva at the last home game of the season, which will be the Champions League second leg against Real Madrid on August 7.
The tribute has been organised by the 1894 Group, and will involve fans lining the route the City team transport will take from their City Football Academy base to the ground, ahead of kick off.
The organisers are stressing to fans that they should observe social distancing, and will mark out the route to try to ensure fans from different households keep apart.
Silva has scored magnificent goals in his last two home games, against Newcastle and Bournemouth, to underline his immense contribution.
He is the most decorated player in the club’s history with four Premier Leagues, five League Cups and two FA Cups.
After his goal and man-of-the-match display against the Cherries on Wednesday, the 1894 Group’s Facebook page posted: “You've seen him tonight! Let's line the streets from the Nexen Tyre Bridge opposite Asda down Ashton New Road to the ground (Gate 11) as the City team minibuses take David and the players from the CFA to the stadium between 6.30-6.45pm.
“Come down 6.15-6.20pm get in position, we will have social distancing markers out.
“Bring friends, family and give David Silva a huge send-off so he CAN appreciate that fans would've wanted to be there for him on his last home appearance.
“You will still have time to get home or to the pub to watch the match!
“Please spread the word far and wide and shares are appreciated. It doesn't matter if you having anything to do with 1894 or not, we're all Blues, it's an occasion for as many Blues as possible to say thanks.”
