Djed Spence is the latest player to try and solve England’s left-back problem. After a difficult start to his Spurs career, Spence has fought his way back into contention and earned an England call-up. Will he be the answer England has been searching for?
For over a decade, England has been searching for a reliable left-back to fill the void left by Ashley Cole's retirement in 2014. A revolving door of players has been tried, tested, and often found wanting. Names like Leighton Baines, Luke Shaw, and even converted wingers like Ashley Young have all had a go, with varying degrees of success. The list is long, varied, and perhaps a little sobering, reflecting the ups and downs of England's footballing journey in recent years.
Now, Djed Spence is the latest name to be added to that list. His journey is a testament to resilience and self-belief. From being seemingly frozen out at Tottenham to earning a call-up to the England squad, Spence's rise has been nothing short of remarkable. His path to the England team is quite unique. There were times when his career looked to be heading in the wrong direction, yet through dedication and perseverance he is now receiving the recognition he deserves.
Spence's recent form has been a major factor in his England call-up. After a successful spell with Nottingham Forest, he secured a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Although his start at Tottenham was tough, he continued to work hard, eventually earning a place in the team. His performances in pre-season, where he faced formidable opponents such as Arsenal's Bukayo Saka and PSG's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, were particularly impressive. This season, under the guidance of Thomas Frank, Spence has continued to shine, showcasing his defensive prowess and attacking flair.
Spence's confidence is currently sky-high, a far cry from the doubts that crept in during his early days at Tottenham. He even playfully baited opponents on social media, posting "Bring me your favourite winger" after a stellar performance against Manchester City. This swagger is reminiscent of Leon Knight, known for his outspoken nature and unwavering self-belief. This type of confidence can be infectious, lifting the spirits of team mates and creating a positive atmosphere within the squad.
However, Spence remains grounded and aware of the challenges ahead. He acknowledged that his confidence had wavered following comments made by then-Tottenham manager Antonio Conte, who described him as a club investment rather than a personal signing. These remarks, Spence admitted, affected his self-belief and made him feel isolated. It takes great mental strength to overcome setbacks like this and emerge stronger. Spence has shown that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
Now, in his new England training gear, Spence is determined to prove his worth and make a lasting impression. He recognizes the significance of representing his country and is eager to contribute to the team's success. "I was on such a high going into the club. I’d done really well, got promoted with Nottingham Forest. I [was] buzzing to sign for Tottenham. So to hear comments like that wasn’t nice. It does shatter your confidence a bit. I almost came crashing down because of comments from the manager and not playing. I was in a difficult space.", Spence said this week, reflecting on those difficult times. Spence will need to put those experiences behind him as he embarks on his international career.
Despite the initial setbacks, Spence has rediscovered his mojo and believes he can compete with anyone. He is yet to encounter a player who has truly tested him, a statement that speaks volumes about his self-assurance. This confidence will be crucial as he prepares to face international opponents. Whether he can finally provide a long-term solution at left-back for England remains to be seen, but his recent form and unwavering belief in his abilities suggest he has every chance of succeeding.
Beyond Spence's individual journey, the article also highlights the support shown by Grimsby Town fans towards Sheffield Wednesday supporters, who are protesting the mismanagement of their club. This act of solidarity demonstrates the strong sense of community that exists within football, where fans stand together to protect the integrity of the game and the well-being of their clubs.
Additionally, the article references a short film about UE Sant Andreu, a fourth-tier club in Barcelona, which was saved from bankruptcy by a painting donated by Salvador Dalí. This anecdote underscores the power of art and culture to support sporting institutions, highlighting the diverse ways in which football clubs can be sustained and cherished within their communities.