Stephen Craigan details Steven Davis' value to the next generation for Northern Ireland
STEPHEN Craigan accepts that the day is fast approaching when his compatriot Steven Davis will announce his retirement from international football – but hopes that he will extend his time in the Northern Ireland set-up for as long as possible to help guide the next generation of players. ...
STEPHEN Craigan accepts that the day is fast approaching when his compatriot Steven Davis will announce his retirement from international football – but hopes that he will extend his time in the Northern Ireland set-up for as long as possible to help guide the next generation of players.
The Rangers midfielder played an integral role as Steven Gerrard’s side cantered to their first top-flight title in ten years and became the most capped British player in history back in March as he made his 126th outing for his nation.
With Davis turning 37 in January, Craigan reckons that the midfielder’s game time will have to carefully managed at both domestic and international level – adding that he expects Gerrard will have had a quiet word with Davis to discuss the former Aston Villa, Fulham and Southampton man’s aspirations.
“From a selfish perspective I hope not,” Craigan replied when asked if he thought Davis could step back from international duty to focus on club football. “I still love watching him for Northern Ireland and still think he is our best midfield player.
“There’s a few good young players coming through like Ali McCann at St Johnstone, Ethan Galbraith at Manchester United and Alfie McCalmont at Leeds United, who has been on loan at Oldham.
READ MORE: The 'vital' conundrum Steven Gerrard must get right with Steven Davis
“There’s no better mentor than Steven Davis to learn from, be around, ask questions and see how he prepares. So even if he’s not playing for Northern Ireland I think being around the camp with his experience is important for the young players.
“From a Rangers perspective I wouldn’t be surprised if Steven Gerrard has had a quiet word to ask what his plans are. I don’t think it would have affected whether they gave him another year [extension] or not. But I’m guessing there’ll be a conversation down the line whether it’s maybe just competitive games he plays in from now.
“That’s a private conversation but you’d think somewhere along the line at some stage Steven would have to take a step back from international football.
“That will be a sad day for Northern Ireland and a sad day for him. As long as he stays fit and feels fresh – he’s the kind of kid who doesn’t like to say no. He just likes to go along with things but somewhere along the line he will have to take his club career into consideration.”
