'How did I not know this?': Fans are shocked to find out World Cup-winning Premier League legend has Japanese ancestry

Fans have been left stunned after an old family portrait of a Premier League great was circulated on social media.

One of the most celebrated talents ever to grace the top flight, the midfielder also enjoyed a decorated run at international level.

As part of Spain's all-conquering side that won two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup the player won a host of individual awards during his glittering career.

However, while former Manchester City star David Silva's life on the pitch has been well documented, fans were shocked to find out he has Japanese ancestry.

A family photo shared widely online shows a youthful Silva alongside his siblings Nando and Natalia, and his parents Fernando and Eva, with the latter having a Japanese parent.

One fan wrote: 'No wonder he's so good with the ball! Damn! Japanese and Spanish perfection!'

Another added: 'Ah, David Silva comes from Japan too? How did I not know this?'

A Japan supporter added: 'YOO david silva is half japanese half spanish?

'Omg I never knew I remember watching him in person when he played against west ham and was in awe of how he dictated the match, he's literally one of my favorite midfielders ever... he should've played for us instead of spain LOL.'

With a Japanese grandparent Silva would have qualified to represent the Samurai Blue at international level, potentially featuring in a team that reached the last 16 in South Africa in 2010.

After impressing at Valencia Silva joined City the year of Spain's World Cup triumph, arriving at the club during Roberto Mancini's time in charge.

The midfielder immediately became an integral part of the Citizens midfield in a campaign where they defeated Stoke City at Wembley to lift the FA Cup, ending a 35-year trophy drought in the process.

At the Etihad Silva would continue to go from strength to strength, winning the Premier League the following season as City pipped bitter rivals Manchester United to the title on the final day.

Silva would go on to add four more league titles during his decade-long stint at the club, becoming one of City's most beloved stars before returning to La Liga with Real Sociedad before hanging up his boots last summer.