Archie Gray has paid an emotional tribute to Ben Davies after the long-serving Tottenham defender finally got his hands on silverware. Joining from Swansea City 11 years ago, the Welshman had come close to winning a trophy with Spurs on a couple of occasions but unfortunately it always managed to allude him.
That was until last Wednesday, however, when Ange Postecoglou's men beat Manchester United in the Europa League final. Davies did not feature in the game but he had a big part to play in the team's journey to Bilbao after helping the Lilywhites advance through the league phase and knockout rounds.
Tottenham's No.33 has become a key figure in Gray's development since his move to N17 from Leeds United last summer. Davies' family have also played a huge role in helping the youngster settle into his new surroundings and Gray believes he "probably would have struggled a little bit" both on and off the pitch if it wasn't for his teammate.
"Ben deserves every moment of this and more," the teenager told SPURSPLAY following Tottenham's 4-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion. "Him, his whole family, they're incredible people, not just him. His whole family has taken me under their wing. They've really helped me this year.
"If he wasn't here, I probably would have struggled a little bit off the pitch, on the pitch. I can't say enough words about him. He's been here for me the whole year. I wouldn't have been able to do what I've been able to do so far this year without him.
"For him, this moment, he deserves it 10 times over. What a player. The things he's done for this club is incredible and he'll continue to do it as well. He's a great professional and a great guy as well."
It has been an incredible first season for Gray at Tottenham after making 46 appearances and collecting a Europa League winners' medal in the process. Rather than keep the medal in his possession, the Durham-born ace instead intends to leave it at his family home in order to inspire his younger brothers.
"I'm not sure. I think I might give it to my little brothers at home, so they can look up to it a little bit," he revealed. "Hopefully it will make them work a bit harder."
Gray will now have the chance to play Champions League football during the 2025/26 campaign. It's something he just can't wait for.
"Yeah, it's incredible to say," he said. "Like everyone, it's a childhood dream to play in the Champions League. Hopefully I can do that next year. I can't wait."