When Leif Davis completed a loan from Leeds United to Scott Parker’s Bournemouth earlier this month, it was expected he would operate from left-back. Diego Rico had left to join Real Sociedad, and Davis came in to replace him. But on Wednesday night, he was used as a right winger.
The 21-year-old was handed his first start and his second appearance as Bournemouth secured an excellent away win over Birmingham City. While he only came on as a substitute against Nottingham Forest, Davis started at St. Andrews. But not at left-back, instead on the right of a front three.
David Brooks receiving a red card in the previous fixtures and Arnaut Danjuma going to Villarreal saw Parker choose Davis on the right. That is, despite having Junior Stanislas on the bench. Davis lasted 70 minutes before coming off, and posted on Instagram following the comprehensive win.
Bale and Robben: Bournemouth and Leeds stars applaud Davis
Given it was his 16th senior appearance, his second for Bournemouth, it was an excellent display from Davis. Cutting inside on numerous occasions with his left foot, he was a threat. Combining well with an inexperienced front three of Jaidon Anthony and Dom Solanke.
The other two scored and while they will gain the plaudits, Davis deserves praise. He got just that from his Bournemouth teammates. Solanke commented “Love it Bale”, while left-back Jordan Zemura compared him to Robben. Luke Ayling and Kalvin Phillips also applauded Davis.
