England defender Djed Spence will once again wear a protective face mask when the Three Lions take on DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32 on Wednesday night. The Tottenham Hotspur full-back is expected to start at right-back after injuries to several of Thomas Tuchel's defenders, including Reece James and Jarrell Quansah, with his unusual appearance prompting plenty of questions from supporters during the tournament.
How Spence Suffered the Injury
Spence has been forced to wear the mask after suffering a broken jaw following what he described as a "crazy challenge" from Liam Delap during Tottenham's penultimate Premier League match of last season. The 25-year-old revealed before the tournament that the injury would take around three months to heal, meaning he has had little choice but to play through the pain.
"It is a little bit uncomfortable - but it is what it is," Spence said. "I have a broken jaw so I have to wear it throughout the tournament. It is something I will have to get used to. It will be three months until it is fully healed, so it is a long time."
Playing Through the Pain
Despite the discomfort, Spence remains focused on the tournament. "It was painful, but luckily I play football with my feet and not my jaw so it is all good. I have been wearing it in training, getting used to wearing it in the heat, and trying to break it in properly. It was a crazy challenge, but it is in the past now. I've just got to focus on this tournament now," he added.
Spence has emerged as an important option for Tuchel after being selected ahead of Newcastle United's Lewis Hall and Manchester United's Luke Shaw in England's World Cup squad. "It shows the manager believes in me. He believes in my quality and I'm thankful for him. I just want to keep on putting in the performances to make everyone happy. It is a huge honour to play for your country, it is a big thing. I'm over the moon and happy to be here," the nine-cap international said.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on a difficult campaign with Tottenham, Spence added: "It has been a difficult season, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel. We managed to get out of a difficult situation, so we have to move forward. Hopefully this World Cup will be a good one."
England will be hoping to book their place in the last 16 against DR Congo, with a huge tie against hosts Mexico lying in wait.
