Ben Davies' limited game-time at Tottenham Hotspur this season has raised concerns about his fitness levels, but Wales boss Craig Bellamy says the left-back/centre-back is "no issue" and remains the team's best player. The 32-year-old defender has made just three appearances for Spurs, including a start against Sunderland last weekend where he scored a goal.
Bellamy acknowledges that Davies' lack of regular first-team action at club level may increase the risk of injury, but believes his player is smart enough to manage their training load and minimize the risk. "These boys are clever enough to know when they play in-house games...and clubs are clever enough to know," Bellamy said.
The tight turnaround between the World Cup play-off semi-final and potential final against Italy or Northern Ireland on March 31 could be a concern for players like Davies, whose regular game-time at Spurs has been limited. However, Bellamy is not concerned, saying "there's no issue" with Davies' fitness levels.
Davies has not suffered with injuries in the same way as former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who has been blighted by fitness issues throughout his career. But unless Davies leaves Spurs or Ramsey finds a new club, their ability to play two matches in quick succession in March could be a concern for Wales.
Bellamy's focus remains on the upcoming World Cup play-offs, where Wales will hope to qualify for a second successive tournament under his leadership. The team has been ranked high in intensity and creativity, and Bellamy is confident that they can secure big results over the next couple of years with their "identity".
Bellamy acknowledges that Davies' lack of regular first-team action at club level may increase the risk of injury, but believes his player is smart enough to manage their training load and minimize the risk. "These boys are clever enough to know when they play in-house games...and clubs are clever enough to know," Bellamy said.
The tight turnaround between the World Cup play-off semi-final and potential final against Italy or Northern Ireland on March 31 could be a concern for players like Davies, whose regular game-time at Spurs has been limited. However, Bellamy is not concerned, saying "there's no issue" with Davies' fitness levels.
Davies has not suffered with injuries in the same way as former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who has been blighted by fitness issues throughout his career. But unless Davies leaves Spurs or Ramsey finds a new club, their ability to play two matches in quick succession in March could be a concern for Wales.
Bellamy's focus remains on the upcoming World Cup play-offs, where Wales will hope to qualify for a second successive tournament under his leadership. The team has been ranked high in intensity and creativity, and Bellamy is confident that they can secure big results over the next couple of years with their "identity".
... like, he's 32, you know? A few months without playing for Spurs isn't going to kill him 
. He's got a good attitude and knows how to take care of himself. I mean, Ramsey's been struggling with injuries his whole career, so that's not exactly a good example 
. As long as he gets some decent training in before the World Cup play-offs, I'm sure he'll be fine 
. Wales has got this!
... maybe bellamy's just trying to keep the squad morale up but personally, i'd want more info before being all confident 
it's like a mini game u can play while u r browsin ... i wonder if i'll cop them or not, my fave team is playin tonight tho 
who else watched that last goal? did u see ben davies score that beauty? btw have u tried those new energy drinks they just came out in stores?
he's been struggling with fitness issues this season and it's like a worry for everyone, esp his national team coach craig bellamy 
but honestly i think bellamy has a point 
davies is super smart and can manage his training load to avoid injuries...fingers crossed he'll be back to his best soon 
. It's not just about his fitness levels, it's also about his overall health and well-being. Injuries are unpredictable and can pop up at any moment, especially when you're playing two matches in quick succession like he might be against Italy or Northern Ireland 