Ben Davies’ return from injury at Tottenham highly anticipated

After hearing word of Hugo Lloris’ imminent return to the lineup, Tottenham received more good news this morning, with Ben Davies said to be only two weeks away making a comeback. 

The Welsh international hasn’t played since Jose Mourinho’s debut on Nov. 23, when Spurs beat West Ham. Mourinho rates highly Davies, who started and played well in the away win over the Hammers. The Telegraph broke the story, saying Davies is just a fortnight from returning to full training.

Considering the recent dismal injury news at Hotspur Way, Tottenham supporters will take solace in the news of Davies’ impending return. Jan Vertonghen made the left back role his own in Davies absence, but the Belgian prefers playing in the centre of the park. Jan’s lack of speed has come to light in recent weeks, with the opposition’s speedy wingers exposing the Belgian stalwart.

Davies receives mixed reviews from Tottenham faithful, but I’m a big proponent of what the Welshman brings to the side. Much quicker than Jan, but by no means blessed with the pace of a cheetah, Davies will help stabilize what has become an incredibly porous defence.

While some supporters don’t rate highly the left back, Tottenham are irrefutably a better defensive side with him in the lineup. Of course it’s a smaller sample size to draw from, but Tottenham allow only one goal per match when Davies patrols the left flank this season. Without him, Spurs concede an average of 1.6 goals per match.

It will take the Welshman some time to adapt to the pace of the game and recapture match fitness, but the good news will be well received by Mourinho and company.

Mourinho will have the option of playing Davies against quicker wingers, relying on the Welshman’s accomplished positioning and experienced defensive nous. Jan can be used both centrally and to cover Davies on the left, creating a much-needed options for Spurs struggling rearguard.

Hopefully Davies returns to the lineup with no lingering ill-effects from fairly serious ligament damage to his ankle. Whether you adore or dislike him, you can’t argue about the importance of his return during an otherwise austere time.