As reported by BBC Sport, Ben Davies has admitted that he is keen to return to the pitch as the Premier League looks to return later this month. He told the Elis James’ Feast of Football podcast he is “desperate” to get back to competition after the Coronavirus lockdown.
The left-back has had a difficult season, chock-full of injuries and fitness problems. So it is understandable that he would want to return to action when the football restarts. But, does Ben Davies really have any future at Tottenham Hotspur?
Decoding Ben Davies’ demise at Tottenham
Before the campaign, Davies was tipped to become an integral part of the Tottenham side. The departure of Kieran Trippier left him as the only other quality fullback, at the disposal of Mauricio Pochettino. Moreover, there was a dearth of options at left-back, with Ryan Sessegnon having minimal experience at the highest level of football.
However, his progress was marred by a groin injury that kept him out for almost three months. He returned to full fitness in February, with his overall game-time this season, being minimised to just 631 minutes.
A far more worrying sign was Davies’ performances following his return to fitness. He was woeful in the three games prior to the suspension of the Premier League as Spurs secured just one victory, which came against the struggling Aston Villa.
What has exactly gone wrong for Davies?
While the unfortunate ankle injury has played a key role in stifling his progress in north London this summer, there are several other reasons behind Davies’ lack of form. The change of manager, in particular, has emerged as one of the crucial elements.
The Welshman’s style of play was ideal under the tactical philosophy of Mauricio Pochettino. However, the left-back has found it challenging to cope with Jose Mourinho’s far more physically demanding, defence-oriented style of football. As a result, the 27-year-old was often caught out of possession and has looked unconvincing with the ball.
Does Davies have any future at Tottenham?
Davies is perhaps lucky due to Covid-19 outbreak. The financial damage the virus has inflicted is sure to restrict Tottenham from signing a quality left-back. That means the Welshman is more than expected to retain his role as the first-choice left-back for Mourinho next season.
Moreover, Jan Vertonghen, who has played as a left-back, at times this season, is set to leave the club following the end of his contract while Sessegnon, as mentioned earlier, has very little experience. That, however, serves as no excuse for Davies, who must improve his performances if he is to remain an integral part of the Spurs backline for the foreseeable future.
