The 54-year-old unearthed and played a major role in the development of Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Collison, among others, into the top-level footballers.

BBC: Brian Flynn - the small man in Wales' big job

But Toshack hoped that Davies would have continued at international level until long-term injury absentees Aaron Ramsey and Jack Collison, the Premier League stars who will miss Wales' first three World Cup qualifiers, return to full fitness in the new year.

BBC: Fulham's Simon Davies calls time on Wales career

Davies has slipped down the Wales midfield pecking order due to emergence of Aaron Ramsey, David Edwards, Jack Collison, Joe Ledley and Andy King.

BBC: Fulham's Simon Davies calls time on Wales career

Gunter is one of a host of promising youngsters in Toshack's squad along with West Ham United's midfielder Jack Collison, former flat-mate and Arsenal playmaker Aaron Ramsey, Manchester City striker Ched Evans and Spurs team-mate Gareth Bale.

BBC: Gunter would consider loan move