Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence has been dealt a crushing blow after being omitted from Gareth Southgate's senior England squad, despite receiving a call-up to the Under-21 provisional team.
The 23-year-old right-back, who spent last season on loan at Genoa and Leeds United, finds himself in international limbo after failing to make the final cut for either squad. This development comes amid growing uncertainty about his club future at Tottenham under new manager Ange Postecoglou.
From Promising Talent to International Outcast
Spence's exclusion marks a dramatic fall from grace for a player who was once considered one of England's most exciting defensive prospects. His impressive performances for Nottingham Forest during their 2021-22 promotion campaign had put him firmly on Southgate's radar, but his career has stalled since his £20 million move to Tottenham.
The defender's loan spell at Leeds United ended prematurely due to a knee injury, limiting him to just seven appearances. His time at Genoa proved more productive with 16 Serie A appearances, but apparently not enough to convince Southgate of his readiness for international duty.
Southgate's Defensive Dilemma
England's senior squad includes several right-back options, with Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all selected ahead of Spence. The competition for places in Southgate's defence remains fiercely competitive, leaving little room for emerging talents who aren't getting regular first-team football.
Meanwhile, the Under-21 squad features other promising defenders including Liverpool's Jarrell Quansah and Chelsea's Levi Colwill, suggesting Spence has work to do to regain his standing within the England setup.
Tottenham Future Hangs in the Balance
Spence's international snub raises further questions about his club future. With only 41 minutes of Premier League football for Tottenham since joining in 2022, the defender faces a crucial pre-season to prove himself to Postecoglou.
Several Championship clubs are reportedly monitoring Spence's situation, with a permanent departure from North London increasingly likely if he fails to impress the new Tottenham manager during summer preparations.
For now, Spence must focus on regaining fitness and form after his injury-disrupted season. His England ambitions remain alive but require immediate club success to resurrect what once seemed a certain international career.
