Tottenham forgotten man tamed ‘ferocious’ Man City star – Redknapp
Jamie Redknapp reserved a “very special mention” for unsung Tottenham hero Ben Davies for helping tame Erling Haaland during the emphatic 4-0 victory over Man City.
Despite being deployed out of his usual left-back position, Davies excelled in the heart of Spurs’ defence, stepping up impressively in the absence of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven due to injuries.
His composure, positioning, and ability to read the game were instrumental in keeping City’s formidable talisman Haaland at bay, making his contribution even more remarkable under the circumstances as Ange Postecoglou’s side blew away the champions at the other end with goals from James Maddison, Pedro Porro and Brennan Johnson.
Former Spurs midfielder Redknapp said on the full-time analysis live on Sky Sports (7.30pm): “I think Ben Davies deserves a very special mention…He’s come on in a couple of games when Romero or Van de Ven have been injured, and I thought he was very assured. He’s one of those sorts of players who doesn’t get the credit he deserves.
“He can fill in at right-back, left-back, he had to go in at centre-back against one of the most ferocious centre-forwards in world football and handled it perfectly.”
Ex-City and England defender Micah Richards then cut in: “What did he do? What did he do? He dropped off, he used his brain, that’s exactly what he did. He got tight when he needed to. I just thought he was outstanding.”
Ben Davies excellent against Erling Haaland for Tottenham
Football Insider Opinion
While this result will buoy fans it’s important to view it in context. Spurs have shown moments of brilliance this season, but inconsistency has often derailed momentum. This victory serves as a reminder of their potential but backing it up will be key if they hope to challenge for a future Premier League title.
However, Postecoglou’s philosophy centred on possession – based football, high pressing, and positional fluidity – has transformed Spurs into a side capable of dictating games even against elite opponents.
What stood out against City wasn’t just the result but the manner in which it was achieved. The London club didn’t sit back and absorb pressure, they played with purpose, exploiting the Citizens’ vulnerabilities and punishing their errors ruthlessly.
Spurs’ faithful have every reason to be optimistic. With leaders like Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski driving the attack and emerging talents like Pape Matar Sarr showing their worth in midfield, the future looks bright. However, it’s players like Davies, often unsung and operating out of position, who truly symbolize the spirit of this team.
This performance against City also serves as a preview of what Tottenham are capable of producing in high-pressure matches. With the Carabao Cup semi-final against Man United on December 19th fast approaching, Spurs have every reason to believe they can secure victory, book their place in the final, and take a significant step toward lifting their first trophy since 2008.
Such an achievement would not only end their 16-year silverware drought but secure Postecoglou’s position and solidify the belief that the former Celtic boss is building a team capable of delivering on the biggest stages.
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