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Ben Davies is the longest-serving player currently at Tottenham Hotspur, having arrived at the club from Swansea City way back in July 2014. The defender has started his 13th season in N17.
The Wales international penned a new one-year contract extension in the summer until the end of next season. The 33-year-old deal was due to expire at the end of June, and he was set to leave the club on a free transfer, but Spurs managed to convince him to stay.
Ben Davies has made two appearances in the Premier League so far this season. The veteran defender came on as a substitute and scored in stoppage time in Tottenham’s 3-1 win over Coventry City last week. Roberto De Zerbi threw him on the pitch in the 88th minute to help his side see off the game against Chelsea as well, which shows the trust the Spurs head coach has in the Welshman.
Recent reports suggest Spurs are planning to hold new contract talks with Davies, months after he signed a one-year extension. De Zerbi and Spurs are keen to see the experienced left-footed defender prolong his stay at White Hart Lane.
Expanding on these reports, Football Insider transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke claims De Zerbi would be willing to approve another contract extension for Davies. The Italian tactician is content with the 33-year-old because he values his experience and leadership in the dressing room.
“He’s not just a key figure on the pitch; he is probably key off the pitch as well. He’s one of the leaders in that squad,” Pete O’Rourke says on the Transfer Insider Podcast (h/t Football Insider).
“So, look, he’ll be 34 come next season, but as long as he’s still able to contribute to Roberto De Zerbi’s side, I’m sure the manager will give serious consideration to extending Davies’ stay at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.”
De Zerbi is clearly past his prime and will be 34 by the time the next season commences. The Wales star is also behind the likes of Micky van de Ven, Jan Paul van Hecke, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson and Destiny Udogie in the defensive pecking order. Yet, his experience, know-how, leadership and versatility are valued by De Zerbi.
So, having a figure like De Zerbi in the dressing room is always valuable, especially for the upcoming young talents to look up to as an example and develop at the club. No wonder the North London club bosses are planning to hold talks with Davies’ camp over a contract extension.