Djed Spence has become one of Tottenham Hotspur’s most talked-about right-backs this season. Spence’s journey from Fulham’s academy prospect to Premier League contender reads like the perfect script for an underdog epic, and he’s refusing to be pigeonholed.
From Youth Prospect to Championship Standout
Born on 9 August 2000, Spence cut his teeth in Fulham’s academy before making his senior debut for Middlesbrough in an EFL Cup tie against Notts County on 14 August 2018.
His time at Boro was marked by steady growth in the Championship, but it was a loan move that truly announced his arrival.
2021–22 Breakthrough: While on loan at Nottingham Forest, Spence featured 46 times, playing a pivotal role in their promotion via the play-offs and earning himself a call-up to England’s under-21 squad.
A £20M Move and Further Adventures
On 19 July 2022, Tottenham Hotspur secured Spence’s signature on a five-year deal reportedly worth £20 million. Rather than settling immediately into the Spurs squad, he embarked on a globe-trotting series of loans:
- Rennes (Jan–May 2023): Gained valuable European experience in Ligue 1.
- Leeds United (Aug–Dec 2023): A knee injury delayed his start, but he still showed glimpses of his trademark burst of pace.
- Genoa (Jan–May 2024): Helped stabilise the Serie A side’s defence before returning to London.
Seizing the Moment in 2024–25
Back at Tottenham for the 2024–25 campaign, Spence made his first appearance in a 1–1 draw with Leicester City on 19 August 2024.
The number 24 took some valuable time out to talk with us about how he sees his future and staying positive with a new footballing season ahead of him.
It must have been nice to Have heard the previous recognition you received from Jonathan Woodgate?
Yes, during my first season, primarily with the U23’s I formed a good relationship with him and am pleased he sees my potential.
How Do you keep match fit during the summer breaks?
I love fitness training anyway so spend much of my time in the gym as well as finding time to rest but at the same time not getting complacent.
What’s the typical diet for you when the season is in full flow and do you change your nutrition when a season is finished?
I stay away from red meat and eat high-protein foods like chicken and fish. My diet doesn’t change off-season as its the type of food I have been raised on so it’s just normal for me to eat healthily.
You are statistically one of the fastest members at Tottenham, is this a natural ability or something you still have to work on?
I’m very lucky as even as a youngster, I had a natural ability to be fast. It doesn’t mean that I don’t still have to work on my stamina daily and the coaches push me even harder because of this strength and to keep on top.
What’s your main aim for this season?
Simply to become an established member of the first team.
Do you take notice of what is written on social media after a game?
Nope, social media doesn’t affect me, although I am very appreciative of the fans and some of their comments if I or the team play well.
How did you feel when you got your first ever call up to the first team at Middlesbrough?
It was and still is a great feeling to hear your name get called to step up for the first team. The very first time was nerve-wracking but once the adrenaline kicks in, you have to get on with the task at hand, whether there are 2000 or 20,000 in the stands!
Do you have any matchday superstitions or pre-match rituals?
Haha, yep, I have to wrap white bandage tape around my left wrist and say a prayer.
How do you remain mentally prepared?
To be honest, football has and always will be my life; it’s all I’ve known so I’m constantly in the zone. I enjoy watching football and stay motivated by keeping my thoughts on my goals and ambitions.
What’s your go-to make of football boot?
Nike Mercurial Superfly!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given so far?
To be yourself on the pitch, be expressive but aware and make the difference.
Who do you consider to be the greatest inspiration in the world of football?
Cristiano Ronaldo.
If you could sign one player from any team in the world to play with you at Tottenham, who would it be?
Kylian Mbappe!
What advice would you give to the next youngsters coming through in the game?
I would say to them to never give up, ride through the hard times and knockbacks and push themselves to be the best against all odds.
