Tottenham Hotspur’s defender Djed Spence stuns critics as Neil Warnock drops surprise admission

Djed Spence of Tottenham Hotspur in action against Manchester United.

Tottenham Hotspur’s defender Djed Spence stuns critics as Neil Warnock drops surprise admission

Festus Chuma 09:00 - 24.02.2025

Djed Spence’s impressive growth at Tottenham stuns former boss Neil Warnock who admits surprise at the defender’s transformation and maturity.

Tottenham Hotspur's young talent Djed Spence has been making headlines for his impressive development, proving doubters wrong and solidifying his place in the first-team setup.

The full-back, who once faced criticism for his attitude, has undergone a remarkable transformation—so much so that even former Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock has taken notice.

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Speaking on The Seaman Says Podcast, Warnock admitted his surprise at Spence’s growth, particularly in terms of his professionalism and attitude.

"Well, I watched Djed Spence and I thought, what a player, you know. Unfortunately for me, I'm hoping that some of the things I said to him at Middlesbrough might have come through. Because he wasn’t a nice lad," Warnock revealed.

Spence, who was previously sent out on loan to gain experience, has clearly taken that time to refine his game and mentality.

His performances have started to earn him significant opportunities at Tottenham, and he now appears more focused and disciplined both on and off the pitch.

Warnock, who had a rocky relationship with Spence during their time together at Middlesbrough, did not shy away from admitting that he saw potential in the right-back but had concerns over his attitude.

"He had a few problems, I thought, at Middlesbrough. And he had to sort himself out. But last night, when you looked at him on the pitch last night, I even thought, I bet he’s done all right off the pitch now," the former manager added.

Reports suggest that his loan spell served as a reality check, making him realize the level of commitment required to succeed at a top club like Tottenham.

Warnock also weighed in on the transfer that brought Spence to Spurs, suggesting that former manager Antonio Conte may not have been the driving force behind the deal.

"I don't think Conte wanted him, if I'm honest. But, and you'll give him a chance. And I looked at it, I thought he was refreshing me. That's nice. Everything he did, I thought, that'll do for me," Warnock said.

Despite this claim, Spence has shown that he belongs in Tottenham’s plans, proving himself as a valuable asset capable of competing at the highest level.

Tottenham fans have been quick to praise Spence’s performances, with many believing he has the potential to become a mainstay in the squad. His ability to adapt, work hard, and learn from past mistakes has been instrumental in his rise.

Spence arrived at Tottenham as a young player with ambition, and now he is starting to fulfill his potential.

His recent displays have silenced critics and with continued dedication, he could become a key figure in the club’s future.