Ben Davies is already convinced by Antonio Conte’s leadership, just a week into the Italian making the move to north London. The 28-year-old has also got forward a couple of times from the backline and after the Everton game, he explained why he is able to do that.
Ben Davies said: “If you move the ball quickly it can open up areas to drive into and the manager is encouraging that. Look, there is a long way for us to go to get our patterns and our rhythm, but it’s promising signs so far.”
Davies further reflected on the game, which saw the Lilywhites have 55% possession and eight shots, but it was another game with no shots on target.
Ben Davies said: “It was a difficult game. We played well in patches, created chances in patches, but we also had to suffer in periods defensively. Overall though, definitely something to build on.We’ve got a lot to work on and a lot to improve on. Antonio [Conte] is a world-class manager who is going to bring his ideas in and will work us hard to make sure we do it right. As players, we’re desperate to get going.
The Wales international made three clearances and had a 83.3% passing accuracy, highlighting that he was defensively sound for the majority of the game. Davies will have to keep this up as if he doesn’t, he could easily see himself replaced by Davinson Sanchez, Joe Rodon or Japhet Tanganga. Conte has had a warm welcome from both players and fans and supporters have made it known at both games so far, chanting the Italian’s name throughout matches. Davies gave a very honest admission about his side but also was full of praise for his new boss.
Ben Davies said: “We haven’t been at our best and he has an idea of how we can get there. I’m sure after the international break we’ll be really be working hard and trying to be the best we can be. There is no doubt in my mind he can get us there.”
The Welshman is clearly very hopeful for what the 52-year-old can do at the north London club and most fans will be in agreement with the defender. However, Davies has admitted that Conte has already identified areas that need improving with his new squad and he echoed this in his post match press conference.
Ben Davies added: “I think we made many many mistakes in the final pass because we had chances. If we made the final pass in the right way, we could have chances to score. Instead, the last pass we made many mistakes.”
Fourteen of the Italian’s first team players have now gone on international duty with their country, including Davies, but when they return he will be sure to continue his tough training and work to improve his Tottenham side. Upon the return of the Premier League, the Lilywhites first face Leeds at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and they will be hoping for three points, to close the gap between themselves and the top four.
