The Welsh media have lavished praise on Ben Davies after he delivered a captain’s display to help his nation make a winning start to their World Cup qualification campaign – and he even showed shades of Gareth Bale in doing so.
Wales are trying to qualify for back-to-back World Cups for the first time in history, and the task before them is now a lot harder as they no longer expect their now-retired talisman, Gareth Bale, to bail them out.
It was an unlikely hero who stepped up for Craig Bellamy’s men, with their experienced captain not just delivering a solid display but also making vital contributions in the final third.
Ben Davies scored a goal and provided an assist as the Dragons emerged 3-1 winners over Kazakhstan in Cardiff.
Ben Davies shines at both ends of the pitch for Wales
The 31-year-old created history on Saturday, becoming the first player since Bale to score and assist in a World Cup qualifier for Wales.
It is a record that the Tottenham Hotspur defender will be proud of, but it is his flawless display at the other end of the pitch that he received plaudits for by the national media.
Wales Online handed him an 8/10 for his performance and wrote: “Solid as ever, and produced a marvellous header to put his side back in front.”
Clwb Peldroed also gave Davies the same waiting and wrote: “Davies stepped up with a captain’s goal when they really needed it to ease the pressure around the stadium following a frustrating first half. He was solid defensively and will be frustrated not to keep a clean sheet.”
Will Tottenham offer Davies a new contract?
Davies continues to show whenever he gets an opportunity that he can still be a valuable asset to any side.
Ange Postecoglou has repeatedly hailed Davies for his leadership and the Australian might be tempted to keep him around as a squad player.
However, Davies is thought to be attracting transfer interest ahead of the summer. With his Tottenham contract running out this summer, it will be interesting to see if Spurs initiate talks over a new deal with the former Swansea man over the coming weeks.
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