De Silva is another Croydon-born academy prospect to come through the youth ranks at Selhurst Park, having joined the Eagles at 13 years-old.
The midfielder made his first team debut in the FA Cup game against Derby County during the 2011/12 campaign, before making his league bow against Blackpool on 21 January 2012. He went on to make a further five appearances before the end of that season.
His displays in those limited outings were enough to convince the management to offer De Silva a new contract and in May 2012 the youngster signed a three-year professional deal with the club.
He found first team opportunities harder to come by during the 2012/13 campaign though, making two appearances before being loaned out to League Two side Barnet.