Toni Is Silva Lining For Reds

Last updated : 28 July 2012 By Alastair Limb (tykesmad)

Liverpool winger Toni Silva has become Barnsley's fifth signing of the summer after joining on a free transfer.

The 18-year-old signs a two year deal at Oakwell after three years on the books at Anfield. 

He joined Liverpool from Benfica in 2009 and had a successful loan spell with League 2 side Northampton Town last season, scoring one goal in 15 appearances.

Silva was born in Guinea but has represented Portugal at under 17 and 18 levels. Reds boss Keith Hill spoke about his latest acquisition:

“He’s a very talented player, but he’s still raw,” said Hill, speaking exclusively to The Sheffield Star.

“We’ve watched him a few times and we’ve really been impressed with we’ve seen.

“He went on loan to Northampton last season, which was a good experience for him.

“I spoke to (Northampton manager) Aidie Boothroyd about him and he agrees that he’s an exciting prospect.

“We’re in a different league now in terms of recruiting,” added Hill. “We have to try and get one step ahead of the game and try and develop players.

“It takes time, but it’s exciting to see what can happen. We’ve proved we can develop players like Jacob Butterfield and Ricardo - and we’ll keep doing that.”

Meanwhile, the Reds suffered a 2-1 defeat in the first ever game at Rotherham United's New York Stadium. Jacob Mellis gave the Reds a 20th minute lead but goals from David Noble and ex-Red Kayode Odejayi (ironically rounding the keeper to score) anyone remember Wembley 2008?

The Reds fielded a triallist at the NY Stadium, ex Middlesbrough and Blackpool midfielder Malaury Martin turning out for Keith Hill's side.