Spurs in Japan | Together in Tokyo | Archie and Ben

It’s the generation game here in Japan – Ben Davies joined us 10 years ago, coincidentally on tour, in Toronto, while Archie Gray is relishing his first tour after joining us earlier this month.

The pair sat down with us at our hotel in Tokyo – here’s what they had to say…

Ben, tell us about those 10 years…

Ben: “It’s one of those things where it’s obviously a long time, but it’s felt very quick. There have been plenty of ups, plenty of downs as well, but I wouldn’t have it any other way… it’s been great.”

Ups, downs, matches, team-mates friends – can you pick a highlight?

Ben: “There are so many highlights, but I think back to when I made my debut for this club, the first time you pull on the shirt, you realise the magnitude of this club, you realise who you are playing for, and you feel that responsibility. Over 10 years later, that feeling has never gone away.”

We’re all hoping Archie will be here for 10 years as well – imagine what he could be like in 10 years – what would you say to him, Ben?

Ben: “Look, Archie’s an incredibly talented player, he played so well last season for Leeds, and we’re very lucky to have him here. Even in his first couple of weeks here, you can see what type of character he is – he’s here to work, he’s here to give his all for this club and I’m really excited to see what he can bring to the club. The hard work starts now!

Archie, welcome again, how have you found it all so far?

Archie: “It’s been brilliant. I’ve enjoyed training a lot and getting to know everyone… it’s been a bit crazy, because I’ve watched them all on TV since I was 15, 16, even younger. For people like Ben, Sonny, these are players I’ve looked up to, and it’s crazy to think I’ll hopefully be playing with them, training has been amazing, and it’s been good so far.”

Archie: “That it’s a massive club and, like Ben said, it’s a massive responsibility. Apart from that, we haven’t been talking too much football, apart from on the pitch, away from that we’ve been relaxing and having normal chats.”

Ben, what are you looking for now on tour?

Ben: “It’s a good chance to get some proper work under our belts. We’re all together, we’re here to work. As nice as it would be to have the time to look around Tokyo and Seoul, this is where you get your good work in, where you get your team bonding in. This is an important two weeks.”

Archie, how important is this first tour for you at Spurs?

Archie: “It’s an important time, important to make a good impression. This is ultimately that. We’ve already played some good teams, now it’s another good chance to make a good impression for the coaches and manager, a good opportunity to get that hard work done.”