Everton signed Joao Silva from Portuguese side Desportivo Das Aves in June 2010.

He joined on an three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The striker, who had just turned 20 when he arrived at Everton, came to Merseyside from Portugal's second tier.

He scored 14 goals in 32 appearances for Aves in 2009/10 -  his first full season in professional football - finishing with the second best tally in the league.

The 6'2" left-footed frontman had caught the attention of teams in Portugal's top division before he switched to Everton.

His performances in his debut season saw him force his way onto the international scene, turning out for the Portugal Under-20 side.

He followed Jermaine Beckford through the doors at Goodison as David Moyes' second recruit of the summer and figured during the tour of Australia.

On January 31 2011 Silva returned to Portugal, and second division side Uniao Desportiva de Leiria on loan until the end of the season. 

Whilst back in his homeland his best showing was in a 3-3 draw with giants Benfica when he bagged a brace.

In August 2011 Silva joined Portuguese club Vitoria FC on a season-long loan. The Setúbal based club play in the top division of Portuguese football.