HOT: Tottenham defender considered to lead the team until the end of the season

Tottenham defender Ben Davies is being viewed as a viable option for the temporary player-manager role in the coming period.

Following Tottenham's dismissal of manager Igor Tudor, the Telegraph reports that the club's leadership has included Ben Davies in a list of seven potential candidates who could take charge of the club during the crucial phase of the relegation battle.

Currently, "The Spurs" are ranked 17th in the standings, just one point above the relegation zone. More worryingly, they are the only team in the Premier League that has not secured any victory since the start of 2026.

A streak of 13 consecutive domestic matches without a win has forced the club's management to consider appointing a temporary manager, in case they cannot persuade Roberto De Zerbi to arrive immediately.

Having an active player assume the manager role while the team is fighting to avoid relegation is uncommon. However, Ben Davies is seen as a special case, having prepared for this transition beforehand.

The 32-year-old defender, who has been with Tottenham since 2014, has quietly pursued a coaching path for several years. In March 2024, the Welsh star officially completed his UEFA A and Elite Youth A licenses, while simultaneously playing and participating in training duties at the club's academy.

Although currently sidelined due to an ankle fracture injury sustained in January, Davies remains the longest-serving player in the squad. He is regarded as a figure with influence in the dressing room and possesses deep understanding of the club's culture and internal dynamics.

If given the opportunity, Davies would join the rare list of players who have also served as managers in the Premier League. Notable precedents include Sir Kenny Dalglish, who led Liverpool to a double trophy haul as a player-manager, and Ryan Giggs, who temporarily managed Manchester United in 2014 while still playing.

Nevertheless, with Tottenham facing the threat of relegation, the pressure placed on Davies would undoubtedly be far greater than in previous precedents.

As the club risks experiencing its worst points tally season since 1915, Tottenham's leadership is also considering experienced options for a "firefighter" role, including Sean Dyche along with former managers Harry Redknapp and Glenn Hoddle.