Thomas Tuchel believes Djed Spence does one thing better than anyone else in the England squad, which is why the Tottenham defender earned a surprise World Cup call-up despite Spurs’ difficult season.
It is not often that players from a relegation-threatened side receive England call-ups, let alone earn a place in a World Cup squad. That is exactly why many supporters were surprised to see Djed Spence included by Thomas Tuchel for this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The Tottenham full-back has not even been a guaranteed starter under Roberto De Zerbi in recent weeks, with Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie often preferred in the wide defensive roles.
There is also fierce competition in England’s full-back positions, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Lewis Hall both enjoying strong individual campaigns this season.
That is why Spence’s inclusion raised plenty of eyebrows, especially considering his call-up has effectively come at the expense of both Alexander-Arnold and Hall, despite the pair arguably enjoying stronger domestic seasons overall.
However, Tuchel believes the Tottenham defender offers qualities that few others in the England setup can provide.
Thomas Tuchel explains why Djed Spence earned England call-up
Speaking to the press after announcing his squad, Thomas Tuchel explained why he placed his trust in the Tottenham defender.
“He was excellent in every match he played for us,” Tuchel said. “He suffers from a third change of coach at his club, since then he doesn’t get a lot of minutes. He suffers from the situation, is part of the situation at Tottenham.
“He loves defending, he’s the fastest player in our squad, and he loves defending one-on-ones. That’s what makes him a special full-back for us. He can play both sides.
“Before the March camp we said: ‘You don’t get the minutes (with Spurs), if you come here you have to prove yourself again.’
“And Djed and Tino were excellent against Uruguay. That was the decision I could really trust him.
“From day one, we were clear we were trying to build the best possible team. Not necessarily the 26 most talented players.”
Djed Spence has come a long way at Tottenham
Considering where his career once seemed to be heading, Spence’s rise has been remarkable.
There was a stage where many questioned whether he would ever become a regular top-flight footballer, yet now he is preparing for the biggest tournament in world football. Tottenham supporters will also feel proud seeing Spence become the club’s only representative in England’s squad.
Whether fans agree with Tuchel’s decision or not, it is difficult to argue against the strengths he highlighted.
Spence was genuinely among the fastest players in this season’s Champions League, ranking alongside names such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. His ability to operate comfortably on both flanks is also hugely valuable in tournament football, where adaptability and fresh legs can completely change games.
Spence himself has looked delighted ever since the announcement, and the confidence boost may arrive at the perfect moment for Tottenham.
With Spurs facing a must-not-lose clash against Everton on the final day, Roberto De Zerbi may now seriously consider throwing Spence into the starting lineup after Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie both struggled against Chelsea.