Left Footed, Experienced, Proven: What Ben Davies Brings To Bolton

Putting pen to paper on a two year deal with the Wanderers, Ben Davies arrives at The Toughsheet Community stadium as the second summer signing on a free transfer from Scottish giants Rangers. After a turbulent stop-start loan spell at Oxford United last campaign he will be sure to be chomping at the bit to prove himself at the level once more.

Ben Davies arrives as a defender who should improve Bolton both immediately and over the course of a long Championship season where depth will play a massive part in whether this team achieves its objectives.

Credit: BBC Sport

Experience At A Higher Level

Although Davies didn't have an outstanding season at Oxford United, much of this can be attributed to managerial changes and unfortunate injuries. Spending much of his career at Championship level with Preston, Sheffield United and Oxford, racking up 160 appearances at the level.

Whether it’s Championship relegation battles, promotion races, European football with Rangers or the demands of a title-winning campaign at Birmingham City, Davies arrives at Bolton with a wealth of experience that should prove invaluable both on and off the pitch.

Credit: ESPN

A Natural Left Sided Option

A left-footed central defender addresses a very much needed George Johnston-shaped hole that was left when the club took the decision not to hand the Scotsman a new contract this season. George Johnston, known for his solid defensive skills and ability to read the game, had become an integral part of the team’s backline during his tenure. His departure has left a significant gap, both in terms of his physical presence on the pitch and the tactical versatility he brought to the squad.

On paper, this appears to be a direct replacement for Johnston, but with higher quality, pedigree, and experience. While one could argue Johnston was settled and a few years his junior, in a league like the Championship experience plays a key part in any successful campaign.

Credit: Oxford Mail

Leadership and Organisation

Going into this new campaign Bolton as its stands will be setting up with a young back line with the likes of Max Conway (22) and Chris Forino (26) potentially starting that first fixture in August. Having a player like Davies to act as a leader without wearing the captain's armband will be crucial for organizing the defense, deciding when to push forward, and when to maintain the line in different scenarios.

Mentoring young players may also have been in the minds of the Bolton hierarchy with this signing. Max Conway and Lewis Temple are two of the younger players on Bolton's books heading into the new season and Davies experience could be invaluable to two young players learning their trade.