Paul Merson Was in No Doubt When Naming ‘The Most Underrated Player in Tottenham’—He’s Convinced
In a team brimming with attacking flair and technical brilliance, it’s easy for certain players to be overlooked. Tottenham Hotspur boast a host of names who regularly dominate headlines—Son Heung-min’s goals, James Maddison’s creativity, Cristian Romero’s defensive steel. However, for former Arsenal midfielder and football pundit Paul Merson, there is one name that rarely makes the front pages but deserves far more credit than he receives.
That name is Ben Davies.
Paul Merson, never shy about sharing strong opinions, was emphatic in his praise for the Welsh defender. “Ben Davies is without doubt the most underrated player at Tottenham,” Merson declared. “He’s not someone who will steal the spotlight with fancy footwork or screamers from outside the box, but what he brings to the team is invaluable. He’s consistent, disciplined, and incredibly versatile. Managers love players like him.”
Merson’s comments shine a spotlight on a player who has been part of the Tottenham setup for nearly a decade, since joining from Swansea City in 2014. During that time, Davies has quietly established himself as one of the most dependable figures in the squad. While his performances may not always earn headlines, they certainly earn the respect of his coaches and teammates.
What sets Ben Davies apart, according to Merson, is his ability to perform reliably in multiple positions. Whether deployed as a traditional left-back, a left-sided center-back in a back three, or even as cover in more advanced positions when required, Davies has never looked out of place. His understanding of the game, positional awareness, and defensive intelligence make him a tactically important figure, especially in high-pressure games.
“He’s someone who always does a job,” Merson explained. “He might not be the flashiest, but he’s smart. He knows where to be, when to step in, and how to cover for others. That kind of player is crucial in any successful side.”
Under different managers—Pochettino, Mourinho, Conte, and now Ange Postecoglou—Davies has consistently been called upon, often in difficult circumstances. Whether filling in for injured teammates or being shifted around the backline due to tactical needs, his professionalism and attitude have never wavered. It’s this selflessness and team-first mentality that earns the admiration of those within the game, even if it sometimes escapes the attention of casual fans.
Another factor that makes Davies stand out is his leadership. Though not always wearing the captain’s armband, his calm presence and experience offer a steadying influence in the dressing room. As Tottenham undergo a transitional phase with an evolving squad and new tactical identity, having experienced, grounded players like Davies is vital.
Merson’s comments come at a time when Spurs are once again pushing to challenge the top sides in the Premier League. Amid all the focus on their attacking talents and promising youth prospects, Merson believes it’s essential to appreciate the players who provide the foundation for success.
“Tottenham wouldn’t be where they are without players like Ben Davies,” he concluded. “He’s the glue that keeps things together. It’s about time people started giving him the recognition he deserves.”
In a world where flair often overshadows function, Ben Davies is a reminder that football still values consistency, intelligence, and quiet leadership. Thanks to voices like Paul Merson, his importance to Tottenham is finally getting the spotlight it deserves.
