Manager Michael O'Neill has gradually fed new players into the side since taking over from Nigel Worthington, capping some for the first time and bringing in others from the fringes of the squad to the first XI.
Against Luxembourg on Tuesday night, the likes of Daniel Lafferty, Lee Hodson, Oliver Norwood, Shane Ferguson, Jamie Ward and Martin Paterson can all expect to start.
They were peripheral figures at the same stage of qualifying for Euro 2012, leaving Davis, 28, to reflect with satisfaction on a rejuvenated group.
"Without a doubt, it's great to see. I am one of the elder ones in the squad now and it is great to see younger players coming through and especially making an impact and being part of big nights for us," said the Southampton midfielder.
"Hopefully we can keep progressing as a team and growing and that will keep us in good stead.
"We've got a good squad together and a good mix, plenty of jokes floating about.
"You've got a squad now with a lot of young players in and they have gained valuable experience so far in a number of games and hopefully that can be a good measure for us going forward."
More immediately, Davis is looking to put right arguably the most disappointing result of O'Neill's tenure.
A year ago at Windsor Park, Northern Ireland dominated Luxembourg in their second Group F fixture, taking an early lead through Dean Shiels.
Source: PA
Source: PA