Ben Davies proves Rangers right after decision to turn down late transfer move
Ben Davies is proving the Rangers board right after their decision to turn down a late summer transfer move from Championship outfit Stoke City in favour of keeping him at Ibrox.
The defender looked as if he would remain on the sidelines for the majority of the season initially, with John Souttar turning in a number of strong performances, but Davies has now played his way back into contention.
Stoke’s offer did not meet the Glasgow club’s financial requirements, nor did it appeal to the defender, despite Alex Neil’s desire to sign his former player [Chris Jack, 9 September], and the decision to turn down the offer has proved to be a good one.
Davies has made an impressive return to Michael Beale’s first team in the rotations and changes he has made since coming under pressure as a result of the 1-0 defeat to Celtic at Ibrox.
In the four games since his return, against St Johnstone, Real Betis, Motherwell and Livingston, Davies has helped his side to keep four clean sheets, reigniting his dominant form alongside defensive partner Connor Goldson and extending their unbeaten run to 20 games when playing together.
The defender continues to dominate his duels, with three of four ground duels and nine of ten aerial duels won against St Johnstone, two and three against Betis, and two and two against Motherwell, showing his willingness to compete with the opposition strikers [Sofascore].
His passing has also been something to note, as he has displayed confidence and stability when helping his side build out from the back. He completed 95 of 112 attempted passes against St Johnstone and 73 of 80 against Motherwell in games that saw Rangers dominate possession.
Davies also displayed his passing range, with ten long balls attempted against St Johnstone and four against Livingston, with his ability to switch the play often helping to relieve pressure and hit on the break.
In other Rangers news, Beale has made a new demand to the SFA after recent fixture congestion.