Pastore thrilled as Thiago Silva closes in on PSG return

The 30-year-old Brazil international defender has been out of action since August with a thigh problem but is in the squad to face APOEL this week

Javier Pastore believes the return of Thiago Silva after two months on the sidelines is a big boost for Paris Saint-Germain.
The Brazil international has been out of action this term after suffering a thigh injury in pre-season action against Napoli in August, but has been named in the squad to face APOEL in the Champions League this week.
"Thiago Silva is a very important player for us. It's good to have a player like him for a game like this in the future, even if the team has done well without him," Pastore told reporters on Monday.
"He's an experienced player and has a lot of technical qualities. It's good to have him back. But in his absence, all the defenders did well."
PSG recorded a highly-impressive 3-2 win over Barcelona on matchday two of the Champions League but have struggled to hit top form in Ligue 1 so far this season.
Pastore admits the team have found it far easier to become motivated for their European encounters but hopes a victory against the Cypriots will help them to build momentum.
"It's normal that it's easier to get motivated for the Champions League. But we are working to be as motivated for Ligue 1. It's not easy, but we try," the playmaker said.

"This is an opportunity to confirm our good work against Barcelona.
"There is no risk [that we will be less focused because of the quality of the opponent]. This is an important match in the Champions League. If we win, we will confirm our good results in the two first matches.
"I hope that we'll do great things. The most important thing is to get out of the group and be in the last 16, so we have to win tomorrow.

"The objective is to qualify. If we finish first, it's even better."
Edinson Cavani was controversially sent off after scoring against Lens over the weekend but Pastore does not believe that the Uruguayan will not be unduly affected by the red card and will continue to do a good job filling in up front the injured Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
"His job is to score goals and to help the team to win. He focuses on this mission. And I hope he will help us tomorrow," added the Argentine.

"Ibrahimovic is an important player for us. But we're trying to do our job without him. It is difficult. Today, he is not here and we can only wait for his return."

France 11:43