I like Davis, but I'm a little surprised at this. I would have let him go at the end of his contract.
For Jay to leave after Saints paying a fortune during his rehabilitation would be unforgivable - I just can't imagine he'd do that
I like him, but assuming we hold on to all our players if you were looking to improve one position next year I think it would be Davis's central-ish attacking-ish midfield position. Not only that, but Davis is turning 30 this season so you probably can't count on him to be a starter for more than 1 more season anyway. But he may not even last that long because JWP needs to be playing more and could surpass Davis. And then there is Reed now behind JWP. You're blocking arguably your two best/most ready prospects with the player who is arguably the weakest and the oldest member of the starting XI.
That's a very valid point but Davis will inevitably become more of a squad player in a couple of years and his experience will come in useful.
Didn't he say he wanted to retire at Rangers? Might get us a bit of cash for him in a couple of seasons.
Cash that would make a noise if you jumped up and down with it in your pockets! Rangers must be the poorest club in the UK (and that includes any that are already in administration).
Just don't see what you see. He's turning 30, not 40. He is fit, dependable and undervalued. As for blocking the paths of the kids, that won't happen. If they are better they play, that's the Southampton way. I can't think of a better, more level headed person to help these youngsters through.
I don't necessarily disagree with that. I was happy when we signed Kelvin Davis in a similar situation, and I think that's been worth it for what he's contributed even being no longer the starter, and what he might continue to contribute after his playing days are over. But in that situation, it was more clear to me what the contract was about. You need a backup and even a third keeper even if he hardly plays. Davis's commitment to the team was unquestionable. And SKD sort of knew what was up, considering that when he was available the best offer he had was as a premier league backup at West Ham anyway. I mean, I'm sure he would have loved to prove himself but he understood nothing was guaranteed and it was likely he'd be asked to serve in the capacity he is now. He clearly loves the club and means a lot to the players and staff, even if the fans don't always give him the respect he deserves. I am not as sure about Steven Davis. But not knowing how much he is making or what the expectations are, I'm not going to second-guess the club. If they think he can become a leader in the locker room and even a psuedo-coach then the contract will be well worth it. I'm a little surprised (more at the length and timing than anything), and not sure I would have done it, but I'm certainly not irate over this. On a personal level, considering it's not my money I'm rather pleased. I have always liked Davis and thought he was a steal the moment I heard we signed him. I defended him last year as being vastly under-rated when others were doubting him. Now it's gotten to the point where his under-ratedness gets pointed out so often he might actually be a little over-rated but regardless he's a solid player.
He's captain of his country, he is a model professional, he just does his job and you never hear a peep from him. Dont forget how much science goes into the club these days. they will know how fit he is and theybwill know how good his life style is. i cant see there being too many late night clubbing sessions followed by a kebab for Steve Davis. You say you're not sure you'd have done it and then you list lots of good things about him. It is a no brainer for me. Good decision by the club.
Since he joined I've described him on here and elsewhere as brilliant but anonymous. I've often been picked up for that as an insult but I stand by it as a compliment. Nothing flashy, just good, solid, sensible and hardworking effort all the time. Too busy doing a great job to do any twiddly stuff that would get him a section on MOTD. Great result. Now we just need to get the equally terrific and unostentatious Jack Cork signed up. VIn
Some journos made him MOTM...got to keep him off the radar. Managed to trick Liverpool into buying Lovren rather than Fonte....need to find someone to distract them from Davis.
