Having labelled himself a 'pub player' after his Villa debut, Davies had turned things round before his 2007/08 was curtailed by injury
Shown the door by Wimbledon as a youngster, Davies sent letters to a host of clubs in the south-east for a trial, with only Luton showing an interest.
It proved well-founded and he helped Hatters to the League One title in his first full season, winning the League One player of the year award in the process.
Comparisons were made with Rio Ferdinand, given the two players’ build, defensive qualities and calmness in possession, and he was off to West Brom in August 2005 for £3m.
He joined Villa on a season-long loan in August 2007 but saw his season cut short by an Achilles injury.
The deal was, as expected, made permanent in July 2008.