Ben Davies Remains Key Player for Wales Despite Limited Game Time
Ben Davies' limited playing time at Tottenham Hotspur is not a concern for Wales, where he is regarded as the "best player" by head coach Craig Bellamy.
The 32-year-old defender has made only three appearances for Spurs this season, with his first start of the campaign resulting in a goal during last Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw against Sunderland.
Following the match, Davies indicated that his future is uncertain, as he has been linked with a potential move away from the London club, which he joined in 2014.
Despite his peripheral role at Spurs this season, the left-back or centre-back is a crucial player for Wales, having earned 100 caps.
This year is particularly important for Wales, as they prepare to face Bosnia-Herzegovina in a World Cup play-off semi-final on March 26, with a possible final against Italy or Northern Ireland just five days later.
The tight schedule could pose a challenge for players like Davies, whose lack of regular first-team action at the club may heighten the risk of injury.
"I've been here a year and a half now, and Ben has never been a regular [at Spurs]," Bellamy stated.
"To be honest, Ben has been our best player. Some players are exceptional professionals; they understand their needs and prepare themselves for critical periods. However, with two games in quick succession, we must be cautious about the potential for injuries."
Wales hopes that Davies will be fit enough to participate in both play-offs in March as they aim to qualify for a second consecutive World Cup.
The former Swansea City player was outstanding in Wales' play-off final victory over Ukraine, securing their place in the previous World Cup in 2022.
Davies continues to be an influential figure, serving as captain in the absence of regular skipper Aaron Ramsey, who is sidelined due to injury.
However, Davies missed the last two group matches of Wales' qualifying campaign after sustaining a hamstring injury during a home defeat against Belgium in October.
Nevertheless, Bellamy remains optimistic, even if Davies does not play regularly before March. "We'll manage it. There are no issues," he added.
"It's important to recognize that these players know how to train and manage themselves. While nothing can replicate match fitness, they are savvy enough to adjust their training loads accordingly."
Davies has not faced the same injury challenges as former Arsenal midfielder Ramsey, who has struggled with fitness issues throughout his career.
However, unless Davies departs Spurs in January or Ramsey, currently without a club, secures a new position, their capacity to play two matches in quick succession in March may be a concern.
"Whether it's Ben or Aaron, we must manage the situation. That's why we need a squad of over 30 players," Bellamy explained. "I've utilized 32 players this campaign, as we need to maintain our intensity. Given our current ranking in Europe, we are performing at a high intensity and creating opportunities, which is essential for achieving significant results in the coming years."
"Unfortunately, many players are unable to play two consecutive matches. Managing this situation will be challenging, but we must find a way to cope. That’s what distinguishes the best teams in qualifying."