When Swansea City's Neil Taylor suffered a horrendous ankle injury way back in September, many supporters were concerned about the void this would leave and the possible detrimental damage effect it could have on Swansea's aspirations to remain in the Premier League. However, their fears were quickly laid to rest.
19 year old Ben Davies from the U21s development squad was called into first team action and filled the position that Taylor's departure had caused. An unknown quantity to many supporters and the media alike, Davies quickly showed some promise, and after just a few games, people began to realise his full potential.
Young Ben Davies was a member of the Team GB Olympic Squad in 2012, and was highly regarded by his peers and the manager Stuart Pearce. But Davies could not have guessed how the following season would have turned out.
Davies has been the first choice left back for Swansea City since September 2012, and this has been enjoyed alongside International success for Wales on a personal level, playing against the likes of Croatia, Scotland and Austria.
During these last few months, Davies has matured physically and mentally. He his physically broader and more imposing than Neil Taylor, and many would argue he reads the game better than the player he was forced to replace. His interceptions are statistically high, and he has formed a good partnership with the left winger Hernandez. This was clearly evident in the Bradford City Capital One Cup Final game at Wembley, where Davies and Hernandez were giving each other gestures throughout the game to ensure the Bradford threat was dealt with.
His crowning moment came against Stoke City at the Liberty Stadium when he scored his first senior goal for the Swans.
However, his best performance has to be against Tottenham Hotspur at the Liberty Stadium just a few weeks ago. Aaron Lennon attempted to pass Davies nine times during the game on the right flank only to be thwarted on every occasion. In the second half, AVB moved Bale to the right wing and on his very first attempt to pass Davies he was blocked and the attack fell apart. Davies not just coped, but outshone any player on that side of the pitch during the game. An incredible achievement against a full England International and arguably one of the World's best players.
So what will happen to Ben Davies upon Neil Taylor's return?
Davies is far too good not to be playing in the first team. Should Taylor be first choice for the left back position, he could more than easily switch to a more central role, and could slot into Ashley Williams' position should the Swansea Captain leave the club in the Summer.
With the Swans announcing record profits this week, Ben Davies has saved the club a fortune and may continue to do so next season when the transfer window opens at the close of season.