Tottenham could be facing another defensive headache ahead of Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa after Ben Davies limped off during Wales’ 4-2 World Cup qualifying defeat to Belgium. The 32-year-old, captaining his country on his 100th appearance, went to ground in the 72nd minute and, unable to continue, walked off under his own power with what appeared to be a muscular issue. Spurs will now conduct further assessment to determine the extent of the damage and whether the veteran can play any part in preparations for the weekend.
Davies’ withdrawal is an untimely setback for a Premier League club already juggling absences and rhythm during the international break. Though the former Swansea City full-back has increasingly been deployed as a central defender for club and country, he has yet to feature for Spurs this season after battling through a knee issue last month.
Even so, his influence remains significant. Within the dressing room, Davies is regarded as a steadying senior voice—someone who bridges the gap between academy graduates and established internationals—and on the training ground he sets the tempo with his professionalism and positional acumen. Losing that presence, even temporarily, would be felt beyond the matchday squad.
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The concern is compounded by the recent injury to Yves Bissouma, who was stretchered off just seconds after coming on for Mali in their 4-1 win over Madagascar. While the exact prognosis for Bissouma is still being established, the episode underlines the precarious balancing act clubs face every international window. For Tottenham, who have leaned on structure and intensity as pillars of their early-season identity, further disruption to senior personnel poses a clear tactical test. Depth options may be thrust forward sooner than planned, and the back line—already in flux—could require an expedited reshuffle before Villa’s visit.
From Wales’ perspective, the timing is equally delicate. With two qualifiers still to come in November, against Liechtenstein and North Macedonia, Rob Page’s side would prefer to count on the leadership and defensive savvy of their centurion as they chase a World Cup play-off berth.
The defeat to Belgium leaves Wales third in Group J, three points behind second-place North Macedonia and four off leaders Belgium, tightening the margin for error as the campaign enters its decisive phase. If Davies’ issue proves minor, a swift return would boost both country and club.
