Maligned Spence morphs into England super sub at business end of World Cup

Djed Spence, who faced criticism after being selected for the World Cup squad and for his performance against DR Congo, has transformed into a vital impact substitute for England. His contributions have been instrumental in the team's progress through the knockout stages of the tournament.

Spence has consistently brought pace, energy, and passion off the bench in the latter stages of England's victories over Mexico and Norway. His impressive cameos have helped silence his critics and solidify his role within the team. The versatile defender, who wears a distinctive chin strap to protect a broken jaw sustained playing for Tottenham Hotspur, has featured in all six of England's matches.

“

Listen, I just want to make the country proud, the nation proud, my team proud, the manager proud. When I step on the pitch, I'll give 110 percent for this country, I'm just grateful to do my part.

Given England's limited resources at full-back, Spence is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming semi-final against Argentina. He expressed his commitment after the win against Norway, stating, "I just want to make the country proud, the nation proud, my team proud, the manager proud. When I step on the pitch, I'll give 110 percent for this country, I'm just grateful to do my part."

“

I think it's just passion. Just psyching me up to go on the pitch and cause trouble, and, yeah, that's what I did.

Earlier in the tournament, Spence drew flak for his performance against DR Congo, particularly after the opposing team scored a goal down his flank. Some questioned manager Thomas Tuchel's decision not to select more experienced players like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Despite perceived criticism from Tuchel on the sidelines, Spence described their interactions as "passion" and "psyching me up to go on the pitch and cause trouble."

His speed proved a significant challenge for the Norwegian defense in the humid conditions, and he nearly earned England a penalty. Teammate Jude Bellingham praised Spence, along with fellow substitutes Dan Burn and Elliot Anderson, as "warriors" for their crucial contributions in protecting the lead. Bellingham highlighted their immense heart and mentality, which were essential in securing the victory.

“

Warriors, warriors. It's one thing to have quality, which all the lads in this group do, but you don't know how much heart and mentality they have until you're in a situation like that.