The 22-year-old made the short journey across west London from Stamford Bridge to Craven Cottage at the beginning of February, signing on loan until the end of the season.

His first-team opportunities were restricted under Mauricio Pochettino, and he hoped for many more under Silva, but that has yet to happen.

The Albania international has only played 31 minutes in the Premier League since his signing on February 1st, having come off the bench twice and missing the most recent encounter against Aston Villa due to illness.His chances have not been helped by the fact that Brazilian forward Rodrigo Muniz has been in excellent form, scoring four goals in his last three outings.

Silva says Broja has no choice except to remain patient, wait for his opportunity, and take advantage of it when it comes.

‘He needs to wait for his chance,’ Silva remarked. ‘We truly believe he is the ideal person to be here. He arrived on deadline day before the Burnley game, and he only played 20 minutes before Rodrigo scored twice.

‘Unfortunately for him, he was sick last week and missed the match, but he is now available, and I will decide what the best way to start the game is.

‘He’s working hard at a new club with a different style, and he needs time to adjust and comprehend things. It takes time, but we can see his quality.”

Fulham will only compete in the Premier League for the remainder of the season.

The Cottagers travel to Manchester United on Saturday, where Broja hopes to make his breakthrough, before hosting Brighton the following week.