Thiago Silva reflects on surviving six-month tuberculosis ordeal ahead of Chelsea debut

Silva has reflected on his battle with TB. [Courtesy]

Thiago Silva still counts himself as lucky to be alive never mind having enjoyed one of the best careers of his generation.

Brazil defender Thiago, 36, arrived at Chelsea with a glittering CV and yet was just 20 years old when his career was nearly over before it had begun after contracting tuberculosis.