Ferguson was intent on building a new side, but there were few changes to the line-up while the 1986-87 season wore on and Davenport was undoubtedly one of the best players in the side that season.
However, the 1988 close season saw the return of Mark Hughes to Old Trafford after two years away and it was widely expected that Davenport would leave, but he began the 1988-89 season still a United player, and with a regular place in the first team.