In 2005, Davis made his debut for Northern Ireland against Canada, and a year and a half later, Sanchez gave him the armband for a friendly match against Uruguay in New York.

At the age of 21 the Cullybackey lad and Aston Villa youngster was representing his country with pride and it was the beginning of an astonishing international career.

“I wouldn’t have thought his record will be beaten,” said former Wimbledon player Sanchez following news of Davis’ retirement. “You need to avoid injury and keep playing.

“Pat Jennings and Peter Shilton were goalkeepers which shows what a magnificent achievement it was from Steven to hit that appearance mark.

“When you are in the centre of midfield you are in the engine room.

“I can remember taking him and Chris Brunt to Azerbaijan when other players were pulling out.

“They were brought out for experience and when we saw them in training I was very impressed with them.

“Steve made his debut, then he became the youngest captain in Northern Ireland’s history when we went on tour to America.

“He stepped up to the mark and from the early days you knew he would be a top player.

“He was a great talent, you could see that and what a career he has had. He’s a down to earth guy, with no airs or graces with him.”

During his tenure as Fulham manager in 2007, Sanchez, the former manager of Wycombe Wanderers, signed Davis from Aston Villa.

“He didn’t really succeed at Fulham, but he went on to have a very successful career,” he continued.

“He didn’t have a future at Villa and he embraced the challenge. He was forced out by one or two seasoned players—not because they were better, but because players take care of one another.

“He had a great time at Rangers and was excellent at Southampton.”

He was also very happy about representing Northern Ireland in the Euro 2016 finals, and if he decides to pursue a career in management, I have no doubt that he will have a successful career.

“It was always obvious that he would be a great leader in addition to a great player.”

Despite the fact that Davis has been recovering from a catastrophic injury, Sanchez thinks he will still look back on his career with great pride.

“At 39 years old, one’s body eventually catches up with you, but he’s had an incredible run,” stated Sanchez, the manager of Northern Ireland during their 1-0 victory over England at Windsor Park, when Davis assisted David Healy in scoring the game-winning goal.

“Anyone’s career ending is terrible, but his run has been incredible.

“Your body is limited, but in the course of his career, he has defeated a good number of players.”

“He has been an incredible asset to Northern Ireland, and I hope the best for him in all of his future endeavors.”

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