Davies: Big Sam Was My Advisor

Port boss Kev reveals influence

- Alan Jones

THERE were moments during Kevin Davies’ first full training session as the Southport manager that left a telling impression.

As Davies laid out what he expected from his new squad in meticulous detail, he referred to the videos he had spent hours scrutinising, assessing how players can improve their own game, what his team can do better and where they can exploit the weaknesses he has identified in opposing sides.

Two days into his first job in management and already Davies was looking to use his analysis to gain an advantage, his level of preparation unmistakable and his coaching style very hands-on.

As a player, Davies’ career peaked under the management of Sam Allardyce at Bolton Wanderers, where the focus was on attention to detail and using technological advances to maximise performance levels.

Ten years may have passed since he worked with Allardyce, but the influence of his former mentor remains strong.