Djed Spence’s journey has been remarkable. Just a year ago, the Tottenham defender was firmly out of the club’s plans, sent on loan and seemingly heading for the exit. Now, at 24, he has not only cemented a place in Thomas Frank’s first XI but also made his senior England debut.
Spence replaced Destiny Udogie in Spurs’ starting side earlier this year and has not looked back. His form has been so strong that Rio Ferdinand now believes he has overtaken Kyle Walker in the England pecking order.
Ferdinand: “He’s the No.1 One-vs-One Defender”
Speaking on Rio Presents, the former Manchester United captain praised Spence’s qualities and tipped him to make England’s World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel:
“He is the number one one-versus-one defender in the England squad right now – no one comes near him. I think Djed Spence is primed and ready to take over the Kyle Walker role. He can play right and left back, and if you play right of the three, he’s so quick he can play right of the three.” — Rio Ferdinand
Ferdinand added that while Walker remains vital in a back three, Spence’s versatility and pace make him the natural successor.
Spence’s England Dream Becomes Reality
The Tottenham star described making his debut against Serbia in the 5-0 win as the proudest day of his life:
“Today is arguably the greatest and proudest day of my life. Honoured to make my England debut. A day I’ve dreamt of all my life and now has become a reality. God is the greatest!” he wrote on Instagram.
In a touching moment, Spurs legend Harry Kane presented Spence with his legacy cap after the game.
“We had a new debut today. I asked to do this because I saw this player three or four years ago at Tottenham, and he had to go through a lot, he had to keep his head up, he had to work hard, and now he’s an England player. He fully deserves this,” Kane said.
Spence 2025/26 Season So Far
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 4 | 0 | 1 |
| England (Debut) | 1 | 0 | 0 |
source: Spurs/England records – 9 September 2025
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Spence’s rise is a testament to resilience:
“Djed Spence looked finished at Spurs not long ago. To go from that position to England’s best one-vs-one defender, as Ferdinand puts it, is an incredible turnaround. His defensive aggression and recovery speed are perfect for Tuchel’s system. If he maintains consistency, he’s on course to be one of England’s standout full-backs at the World Cup.”
Key Insights
- Djed Spence made his England debut vs Serbia in 5-0 win.
- Rio Ferdinand calls him “England’s best one-vs-one defender.”
- Backed to take over Kyle Walker’s role ahead of World Cup 2026.
- Harry Kane presented Spence with his debut cap, praising his resilience.
- Spence has established himself in Tottenham’s XI this season.
What’s Next for Spence?
Spence will return to Spurs duty this weekend with his stock at an all-time high. Frank is likely to continue backing him as a first-choice full-back, especially after signing a new contract this summer.
For England, October’s international window could provide more minutes — and another chance to prove Ferdinand right.
👉 Is Djed Spence ready to take Kyle Walker’s place for England — or does he still need a full season at the top level to prove it?
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