Adam Davies

Davies built his reputation as a captain who marshalled a defence through multiple promotions and relegations long before he ever arrived at Sheffield United. He talks constantly through matches, shifting his back line into position and demanding concentration from teammates who might otherwise switch off. That organisational instinct, combined with a genuinely reliable pair of hands, is why he has represented Wales on the biggest stage international football offers.

The tension for a goalkeeper his age and experience is accepting a role that fluctuates between started matches and understudy duties, rather than the guaranteed starting spot he once held at previous clubs. Sheffield United value the calm he brings whenever he is called upon, since a settled dressing room often needs an experienced voice as much as it needs a first choice name. How the club balances that experience against younger competition for the gloves says plenty about their priorities.