Djed Spence, the Tottenham Hotspur defender, has been resolute in his determination to earn a spot in the England national team, despite being overlooked for recent squad selections. Despite his impressive form at club level, he has yet to receive a senior call-up to the Three Lions. The full-back’s omission was most noticeable during the March international break when Arsenal’s Miles Lewis-Skelly was selected over Spence by England head coach Thomas Tuchel.
Nonetheless, Spence has remained focused on his goal of representing his country. In a recent interview on the Rio Ferdinand Presents show, Spence spoke candidly about his aspirations, outlining the steps he believes are necessary to break into the England squad. “I just want to keep establishing myself, play for my country as well,” Spence shared. “That’s another thing that I want to do. To achieve that, I just have to keep improving and stay focused,” he added.
The Tottenham defender’s drive and focus are evident as he aims to mirror the path of players who have set high standards in English football. When asked about players he admires and looks up to, Spence pointed to one standout figure: Kyle Walker. The former Manchester City right-back has been a fixture in the England setup for years, playing a crucial role in the national team’s success. Walker’s career is particularly inspiring to Spence, who sees him as a benchmark for success in the right-back position.
Spence spoke highly of Walker’s influence in the game, describing him as “phenomenal” and someone who has achieved great things in his career. “I always looked at Kyle Walker, to be fair. You know, what a player, phenomenal player, what he’s done in the game. For me, the best right-back in Premier League history,” Spence stated. His admiration for Walker is clear, and it reflects Spence’s own desire to reach similar heights in the sport.
Kyle Walker’s journey from Tottenham to the England squad serves as a perfect example for Spence. Much like Spence, Walker spent time at Tottenham before making his name as one of the Premier League’s best right-backs. After solid performances at Spurs, Walker’s talent was recognized by England managers, and he eventually became the first-choice right-back under Gareth Southgate. Spence is now hoping to replicate that journey, using Walker’s rise as motivation to break into the England squad and become a fixture in the national team.
For Spence, the key to making his way into the England setup lies in maintaining his form at Tottenham. His continued strong performances at club level could make it increasingly difficult for national team selectors to ignore him. As Spence continues to deliver at Spurs, the prospect of a senior call-up becomes more likely, and with each game, his chances of representing England grow.
The full-back’s ambition to play for his country is undiminished, and he understands that the road to international recognition is not easy. But with determination and hard work, Spence is aiming to follow in the footsteps of players like Kyle Walker and carve out his own legacy in the England national team. As he keeps focusing on improving his game, the possibility of Spence becoming a key figure for the Three Lions seems more attainable than ever.
