Key Highlights :
The Northern Irish midfielder Steven Davis, who is the most-capped British men’s player of all time, suffered a devastating ACL injury in a freak training ground accident in December that ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign and seriously called into question whether or not he would ever kick a ball again. Michael Beale, Davis' current manager, expects the 38-year-old to eventually move into coaching once he decides to call time on his career, but he is hopeful that that day remains far off in the distance.
Beale is determined to do everything he can to help Davis traverse the long and arduous road to recovery – because he feels such an illustrious career deserves a fitting send-off. “He is focused right now on not ending his career and getting back to playing,” Beale explained. “When I first came back I thought Davis had more time in him and five subs gives you a lot of options now as a coach.”
Davis has shown glimpses of his former self in recent appearances, including a strong performance in a game against Leverkusen and an outstanding display in a game against Hibs. However, Beale is aware that the path to recovery will be a long and difficult one for Davis and that it is important for his ambition to get back playing to be supported.
Beale is also keen to stress that Davis should not be rushed into coaching, and that it is something that he should only do if he truly wants to. “You can’t rush into coaching because it has to be something you want to do,” Beale said. “We’ll get him ready, we’ll get him back to play and then the options are open.”
Davis has had an illustrious career and is undoubtedly one of the most talented players of his generation. Michael Beale is determined to ensure that Davis has the chance to have a fitting send-off and is keen to help him get back to playing so that he can have the option of moving into coaching when the time is right.