Davenport was originally scheduled to spend the campaign with Simon Davies‘ Elite Development Squad but injury in early November scuppered those plans and the midfielder is just getting used to being back on the pitch.
As part of his recovery, the youngster has spent time with Lee Carsley‘s U18s and is in contention to start the second leg of City’s FA Youth Cup semi-final with Stoke City.
The Blues are 6-0 up after an incredible attacking display in the first leg at the Academy Stadium but Davenport insists he and his teammates must remain focused during Monday’s clash at the bet365 Stadium.
He said: “We can never let our attention to the game slip. We have to be professional and go into the match as if it’s still 0-0. With the match being at a Premier League stadium and in front of a TV crowd, we’ll be looking to make a statement for the final.
“I’ve been a City fan all my life and it’s an honour just to come here to work every day. I remember seeing the Youth Cup success of 2008 and being inspired by that team. If we can match that this season then it will be something to be really proud of.”
Davenport is adamant that despite the months lost to injury, his season would still be a success if he was to guide City’s U18s over the line in the Youth Cup and Premier League while also helping the EDS chase down Premier League 2 leaders Everton.
He said: “I have to accept the time has gone but we’re at such an important time of the season now that all I’m thinking of helping the club get through the last couple of months as well as they can.
“Even though I’ve missed so much of the season through injury, lifting trophies and winning important matches in the next couple of months would mean I’d be happy with how its gone.”
The 18-year-old featured in a left-back role earlier in the season but he believes his long term future lies in the defensive midfield position he is most well known for.
“It’s been a start-stop season for me and I’ve not played as many minutes as I’d like to but that happens in football. Next season I want to be playing and trying to cement my place in the number six position.
“It’s always good to have a few positions under your belt and I’ll play wherever the manager wants me to play but ultimately, I feel like I’m a number six and there’s where I want to be playing.”
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