Former England and Chelsea captain John Terry has accused Three Lions manager Thomas Tuchel of unfairly singling out Tottenham right-back Djed Spence during the World Cup. Speaking on Piers Morgan's World Cup Uncensored show, Terry suggested that Tuchel would not treat Trent Alexander-Arnold in the same manner, implying that Spence was selected partly because he is an easier target for criticism.
Tuchel has repeatedly berated Spence from the touchline throughout England's four tournament matches, two of which the 25-year-old started. Despite the entire backline appearing nervy at times, the German coach has consistently directed his frustration at Spence. Terry expressed concern over this treatment, stating he is worried about how Tuchel handles less established players compared to bigger names.
Terry's Comments on Tuchel's Behavior
“I don’t know if you’ve seen the images and videos of him going mad at Spence again in the game [against DR Congo],” Terry said. “I’m not saying he’s picking him out - but he seems like he’s having a proper dig at him.”
“I’m a little bit worried,” the former England captain continued. “If that’s Trent, I’m not sure he’s behaving like that. I’m not sure he’s talking to Trent like that.”
“And maybe that’s an [explanation] of why he’s picked a couple of these players. Because he can go like that to these younger players or these new players in the squad.”
Tuchel controversially omitted Alexander-Arnold, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden from the squad, citing squad harmony. With Reece James and Tino Livramento injured, the decision to leave out the former Liverpool defender has come under scrutiny.
Spence's Performance and Tuchel's Temper
Morgan suggested that Spence can appear cocky, which might contribute to Tuchel's treatment. Terry responded: “Listen, I’m not his fan. I don’t think he’s a good defender, I don’t think he’s a good footballer.”
“But I will say I’ve not seen Tuchel do that to anyone else. It just seems to be on two or three occasions he’s dug Spence out.”
Spence was substituted in the second half of England's last-32 match against DR Congo after struggling against winger Brian Cipenga. However, he was not the only player to face Tuchel's anger; the German was visibly furious after Cipenga's opening goal went past Jordan Pickford at the near post.
Tuchel's Track Record and Future Matches
Spence has earned 10 caps for England and is likely to remain the starting right-back if Tuchel keeps Ezri Konsa at centre-back. Questions persist about whether Tottenham's second-choice right-back should start over serial winner Alexander-Arnold, but with no other natural right-sided full-back in the squad, Tuchel has limited options.
Tuchel is no stranger to conflict, having clashed with figures like Antonio Conte, Kylian Mbappe, and Romelu Lukaku. His passionate methods have sparked debate, but his approach has also yielded results. For instance, his atypical treatment of Jude Bellingham, including omitting him from the squad last year, motivated the Real Madrid star to win two man of the match awards in the tournament.
England's last-16 match against Mexico at the Azteca presents an opportunity for Spence to prove his worth to both fans and Tuchel.
