‘He’s very good,’ says American coach. Tottenham’s player is much faster than 

Ben Davies has the ability to play more regularly at left wing-back for Tottenham Hotspur, according to Brad Friedel, who believes the Welshman is much faster than many people realize.

Davies was a late inclusion for Sunday’s game against West Ham. This season, the 29-year-old has been a regular starter. However, he has spent the majority of his time at centre-back.

Tottenham appeared to have made a poor team selection. Emerson Royal began on the opposing flank. As a result, it did not appear that Spurs’ wing-backs would have a significant impact on the game.

Friedel compliments Ben Davies
We were so wrong.

In fact, it was fitting that it was Emerson who broke the deadlock. And it was Davies who played the Brazilian in, with the wide-man himself latching onto an amazing pass from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Davies began his Tottenham career as a left-back in a back four. But with Antonio Conte using wing-backs, the demands on the player on the left of the defence are quite different.

Davies arguably has his limitations as a player. But Friedel believes that the £11 million star is indeed suited to the position he played in on Sunday.

“He’s played at wing back and he can play there – he’s a versatile player. He got the assist for the first goal getting very far forward,” he told Sporting Post.

“Technically he’s very good, a sound passer and deceptively faster than people think. I don’t see any issues why he can’t adapt to it and his service with his left foot is solid. So if you can get him in possession of the ball further up the pitch I think that’s a good thing for Tottenham.”

There is arguably an opportunity for someone to stamp their authority on the left wing-back role for the rest of the season.

The likes of Ryan Sessegnon and Ivan Perisic have had bright moments. But Sessegnon is, unfortunately, sidelined again with injury. And Perisic has not always been able to make a significant impact on games.

Spurs fans will probably hope that Davies is not seen as the answer. But he seems to be one of the best professionals at the club. Certainly, few are more reliable when it comes to producing big displays when the team needs it.