Opposition Watch: Mitrovic motivated

There were remarkable scenes during our Emirates FA Cup quarter-final win over the Cottagers in March, with the game turning when Willian handled a Jadon Sancho shot on the line.

Referee Chris Kavanagh did not spot the offence but was called to the pitchside monitor to see the incident clearly and awarded a penalty, while sending off the Brazilian.

Mitrovic, whose goal was separating the teams, was incensed by the decision and confronted Kavanagh, also earning a red card. Bruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick and United went on to win 3-1, en route to next weekend's Wembley final with Manchester City.

Mitrovic was subsequently banned for eight games by the Football Association, a standard three-game suspension, plus an additional three for violent conduct towards a match official and another two for using language that was "improper, abusive, insulting and threatening".

The Serbia international returned, and scored, in a 2-0 triumph at relegated Southampton and followed it up with a brace in last weekend's London derby draw with Crystal Palace.

While it has been suggested the 28-year-old will have a point to prove in Sunday's league season finale, Silva insists the striker will simply be as motivated as he is for every match.

When asked if Mitrovic would be particularly fired up for the occasion, Silva, who was also handed a two-game touchline ban following the fracas, replied: "No, not at all. Mitro doesn't need this type of incentive.

"I think he showed, in 25 minutes against Southampton, that it doesn't matter the club that he is going to play against, [and] last week against Palace.

"He is Mitro, he doesn't need to play against certain types of teams or in certain situations to be more motivated."

Silva also paid tribute to United at his press conference, adding: "You know that you are going to play against a very good side. I think they've been showing this season that they’re a massive club, last night [against Chelsea] they showed again their quality.

"The individual quality they have, in my opinion, is clearly in the best teams in this league, because if you look for their individuals, they are really a top, top, top level."