‘I’m happy proving Conte wrong’ – English-Kenyan fullback Djed Spence after first senior call-up

Tottenham fullback Djed Spence says his first call-up to the England senior team is proof that former Spurs manager Antonio Conte was wrong to doubt his ability.

Spence, who has Kenyan heritage, earned a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad after strong performances this season.

Speaking from England’s training base at St George’s Park, the 25-year-old reflected on the difficult start to his Tottenham career under Conte and how it nearly derailed his confidence.

“I would probably say the biggest hurdle is when I signed for Tottenham and I didn’t necessarily feel the love straight away, with the manager and everything. I was on such a high going into the club,” Spence recalled.

“When I went there, I was on a high, and then I almost came crashing down because of comments from the manager and not playing. I was in a difficult space then.”

Conte, who has since gone on to win Serie A with Napoli, had publicly questioned Spence’s signing during his time at Spurs, limiting the defender’s opportunities in the first team.

For Spence, those moments were particularly tough, though he says they made him more resilient.

“I am buzzing, I am going to sign for Tottenham. So to hear comments like that wasn’t nice. It does shatter your confidence a bit. But, you know, I am a fighter. So, whatever I do I will try to do my best in everything I can. Fast forward, I am here now, so I am happy,” he added.

Now, with his international recognition, Spence admits he has not forgotten those who doubted him.

“I wouldn’t say I particularly have a list or anything, but I do have a mental note of people who doubted me, for sure, and it does feel good to prove them wrong.”