‘I was really impressed’: Gary Lineker raves about £12M Tottenham player’s display against Man United
Djed Spence retained his spot at left-back for Tottenham Hotspur’s clash against Manchester United, even with the return of Destiny Udogie to fitness.
Spence’s emergence as a reliable option in that position has been one of the more surprising developments under Ange Postecoglou. Just months ago, Spence appeared destined to leave Tottenham, with his future seemingly uncertain. However, a combination of injuries and his own standout performances has allowed him to carve out a key role in the squad.
Udogie, previously a first-choice left-back, now faces a formidable challenge in reclaiming his place. Spence’s contributions have been so impactful that even with Udogie’s return, the former England U21 international remains the preferred option. This shift underscores how Spence has turned a once-limited opportunity into a platform to thrive.
Spence’s performance in Tottenham’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United earned him widespread praise, including recognition from footballing legend Gary Lineker. On “The Rest is Football” podcast, Lineker applauded Spence’s all-around display, which combined defensive solidity with attacking energy.
Lineker highlighted Spence as a potential option for new England manager Thomas Tuchel, suggesting the player could soon receive a call-up to the national team. He emphasized how Spence’s current form aligns perfectly with England’s need for quality left-back options.
Lineker remarked on the sudden emergence of talented young left-backs, including Myles Lewis-Skelly, Lewis Hall, and Spence, all of whom have impressed in recent months.
According to Lineker, Spence’s versatility and consistency make him a strong contender to feature in Tuchel’s first England squad. With England’s next fixtures just weeks away, Spence could find himself competing for a position on the international stage sooner than expected.
Spence’s performance against Manchester United showcased the attributes that have made him such a valuable asset for Tottenham. His defensive contributions were vital, and he displayed confidence and composure on the ball.
In addition to his defensive work, Spence also made an impact in the attacking third, delivering a dynamic, marauding performance that kept United’s defense under constant pressure. His ability to transition seamlessly between defensive duties and offensive support has become a hallmark of his game.
The win over Manchester United also provided a platform for James Maddison to shine. Maddison, who has experienced a resurgence at Tottenham, delivered a commanding display in midfield. His creativity and vision were evident throughout the match, with his performance serving as a reminder of his quality.
This timely showing comes as Thomas Tuchel prepares to name his first England squad, giving Maddison renewed hope of making an impression at the international level.
Under Gareth Southgate, Maddison struggled to secure a consistent role in the England setup, often viewed as a luxury player without a clear fit in the manager’s tactical systems. However, Tuchel’s arrival presents a fresh opportunity for Maddison to stake his claim.
With competition for attacking midfield roles still fierce, Maddison may need to adapt his game and demonstrate his ability to contribute in deeper or more versatile positions. His creativity and ability to unlock defenses could prove invaluable, particularly if Tuchel opts for a system that prioritizes technical proficiency in midfield.
Maddison’s performance against Manchester United will certainly have caught Tuchel’s attention. It was a display that highlighted his ability to influence games at the highest level, reinforcing his credentials as a player capable of stepping up on the international stage.
Like Spence, Maddison’s recent form has breathed new life into his career, and both players stand as examples of how seizing opportunities can lead to transformative moments.
For Tottenham, the rise of Spence and the resurgence of Maddison offer reasons for optimism. Spence has become a reliable and dynamic presence in the defense, while Maddison’s creative spark has been instrumental in shaping the team’s attacking play. Together, they embody the kind of individual quality that can elevate a team’s performances and fortunes.
As Postecoglou navigates the challenges of balancing squad depth and player form, Spence and Maddison have made compelling cases for their continued inclusion.
For Spence, his journey from a potential departure to a key figure in Tottenham’s lineup is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. For Maddison, the opportunity to impress at both club and international levels underscores his determination to fulfill his potential.
The coming weeks will be pivotal for both players. With Tottenham pushing to maintain momentum in the Premier League and England preparing for their next fixtures, Spence and Maddison will aim to build on their recent successes. Whether at the club level or on the international stage, their contributions could prove decisive in shaping the narratives of their seasons.