Tbf, I think he always has. I remember last season, a few people, myself included, had him down as a candidate for player of the season. I think every CB would extremely happy to have a full back like Dave playing next to him. It's not just the 1v1s which he must be one of the best in the world at, but the stability he gives the whole back four. He's always there to help the two CBs, always. He knows exactly when to tuck in and when to cover for the CB and when to go out and play 1v1 against the attacker. His movement and decision making is what makes him so great, imo.