Credit: Imago

Ian Darke

Mon 24 March 2025 18:40, UK

Djed Spence has seen praise heaped upon him by what have been a largely disgruntled network of Tottenham Hotspur fans this season.

Having improvised at left-back among Ange Postecoglou’s experimental line enforced his way due to injuries, Spence has shone in an underperforming Spurs outfit and has subsequently been credited with recommendations for England.

The 24-year-old missed out on Thomas Tuchel’s inaugural squad in favour of newbies, including Newcastle United’s Dan Burn, and Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, who himself has carved out a regular spot in the Premier League.

Spence has had monumental Tottenham turnaround

While Spence did not receive the call from Tuchel this time around, many of a Tottenham persuasion expect it could come sooner rather than later.

With the World Cup on the horizon in a little over a year, Spence must ensure he continues his momentum into next season, whether at left-back or elsewhere, as long as the game time holds up.

TV commentator Ian Darke, speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, is surprised by Spence’s transformation, who he describes as “so far the wrong side of the tracks” at first in North London.

“I think Spence has been a beacon of light, and he’s getting England mentions,” Darke said.

“This was a guy so far the wrong side of the tracks at Tottenham that you couldn’t hear the train whistle. Here he is now, one of the star players, and deservedly getting recognition. He looked a bright young talent when they signed him, and then they seemed to look at him and doubt if he was ready to do a job for them.

“Being around the squad has no doubt improved him, and he’s a better, more-rounded player. Not as naive and raw anymore. He’s made the jump up and should have accolades coming his way.”

Postecoglou job being held in place by players like Spence

While senior players have faltered at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this season, Spurs fans wanting rid of Son Heung-min is an example of this year’s nightmare; players like Spence have stepped up.

A doubtful start to his Tottenham career saw a series of underwhelming loans, remaining unsettled, but he has answered the versatility call his head coach has so desperately needed.

When the June international break rolls around, Tuchel will be paying particular attention to those who have made an impact in the run-in under increased pressure.

Nothing spells pressure like Spurs’ complete and utter desperation to win the Europa League and keep Postecoglou from delivering their worst season in the modern game, and if Spence can help deliver that, he could well get the nod in the summer.