Southampton’s José Fonte believes players like Kelvin Davis are the most important in the dressing room for any club.
Davis reached 300 appearances for Saints at Manchester City on Sunday, with Fonte playing alongside the club captain since his arrival from Crystal Palace in 2010.
Fonte, who himself is now on 226 appearances in all competitions for the club, praised Davis for his attitude and dedication to the success of Southampton.
“I think that people like him are the most important in the dressing room,” Fonte told saintsfc.co.uk.
“He’s a leader, he’s an example as a professional. He’s a big character and he’s a clown as well – he makes people laugh.
“Especially for the kids he is one they need to look up to because he’s a great professional and a great example how to conduct yourself and be a good football player.”
Davis and Fonte have enjoyed huge success since the defender’s arrival in 2010, winning back-to-back promotions and establishing the club back in the Premier League.
The Portuguese defender admits they sometimes reflect on what they have accomplished together in the last five years.
“We’ve been on a great journey. I could say on numerous occasions where we shared some great memories,” Fonte added. “It’s well documented that we’ve been all through the leagues.
“It’s just fantastic what he, and we, were able to achieve together and he was massive for us throughout all those years.
“When we have a meal on an away game once in a while we share some moments and thoughts about what we accomplished and what we achieved,” Fonte continued.
“It’s always great to remember but time doesn’t stop, you have to keep moving forward and keep trying to create more memories and greater achievements.”
And Fonte hopes he too can reach 300 games for the club, adding: “I told him I’m going to catch him!
“I want to go as far as I can. I just need to keep fit and healthy and try to be selected every week.”
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