Djed Spence is one of the first names on Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank’s teamsheet
Djed Spence enjoyed his breakout season at Tottenham Hotspur last term.
From the shadows of obscurity to a regular starter under former boss Ange Postecoglou, the Englishman showed everyone that he deserves to stay at N17. But that was just the start for the full-back, as he became a fan favourite at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and revived his stuttering career.
Djed Spence now looks finally settled at the club and his consistent performances since December last year earned him a new contract extension in August. The 25-year-old has quickly become a key part of new boss Thomas Frank’s setup, starting all four Premier League games and the Champions League fixture against Villarreal thus far.
Pundit feels Djed Spence is now undroppable at Tottenham
Spence’s strong form earned him an England call-up in the past international break. He came on as a substitute in England’s 5-0 smashing of Serbia in a World Cup qualifier. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand thinks the Tottenham man is the best 1v1 defender and should become a part of Thomas Tuchel’s squad at the expense of the ageing Kyle Walker.
At club level, the full-back has been solid both defensively and going forward. He has deputised well at left-back in the absence of Destiny Udogie, who is now back to fitness and came on as a substitute in the 1-0 victory over Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday evening.
Now, famous football commentator and analyst Ian Darke feels Spence is now indispensable to the Tottenham side. As a result, Udogie must wait for his opportunity. He exclusively told Tottenham News:
“I think it means he keeps his place, to be honest with you, for the time being,”
“I think Spence’s been in such good form. He’s forced his way into the England set-up so that he won’t get left out.
“And he’d be a contender for the other position on the right, Pedro Porro’s position, if he weren’t playing left-back. So nice problem for Frank to have, but I think Udogie might have to wait his turn.”
Udogie faces big task to reclaim left-back berth
During Ange’s tenure at N17, Udogie was the first-choice left-back. However, a rotten luck with injuries hampered his progress and limited his action on the pitch during the second half of last season. This allowed Spence to cement his place at left-back.
Things have not started differently this season. In Udogie’s injury absence, Frank decided to go with Spence at left-back and the one-cap England international is yet to disappoint. While Udogie has recovered from injury and made a couple of appearances off the bench, the Italian now faces a challenge of regaining his spot in the starting XI.
All in all, this healthy competition between Udogie and Spence for the left-back spot only bodes well for Frank and Tottenham.