Djed Spence is an English professional footballer with Kenyan and Jamaican heritage, known for his dynamic performances as a full-back for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. Born in London on August 9, 2000, Spence carries the full name Diop Tehuti Djed-Hotep Spence. His diverse background offers him eligibility to represent three countries internationally England, Kenya, and Jamaica though he has yet to make a senior national team appearance.
Spence’s upbringing was rooted in London, where he grew up alongside his sister, Karla-Simone Spence, who has made a name for herself in acting. His mother, Aisha Spence, originally from Kenya, played an influential role throughout his formative years, providing unwavering support by accompanying him to training sessions and even helping out with practical matters like washing kits during his time at grassroots football with Junior Elite in Croydon.
Beginning his football journey in Fulham’s youth ranks, Spence moved to Middlesbrough in 2018, where he continued to develop his skills. However, his breakthrough arrived during the 2021/22 season while on loan at Nottingham Forest. There, he was instrumental in the club’s promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs, showcasing his defensive solidity and attacking flair from the full-back position.
His impressive displays caught the attention of bigger clubs, leading to a high-profile transfer to Tottenham Hotspur in July 2022. The transfer fee was reported to be significant, and Spence signed a five-year deal, which was later extended until 2028. Initially, his start at Tottenham under then-manager Antonio Conte was challenging. He was largely overlooked and spent much of his time out on loan, with spells at Rennes in France, Leeds United, and Genoa in Italy.
Things changed dramatically with the arrival of Ange Postecoglou as Tottenham’s manager. Postecoglou’s faith in Spence unlocked the player’s potential, giving him confidence and opportunities to shine in the first team. With established players Destiny Udogie and Ben Davies sidelined, Spence stepped into the left-back role and made an immediate impact. His energetic style and attacking instincts were evident as he quickly set up key goals, including an assist to James Maddison against Southampton and a clever assist to Solanke in a thrilling Carabao Cup victory over Manchester United.
Spence’s resurgence culminated in a memorable 2025 season where he played a vital part in Tottenham Hotspur’s historic UEFA Europa League triumph. The club defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the final, held at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. Brennan Johnson’s decisive goal secured the trophy, ending a 17-year wait for European silverware for Spurs. Spence’s defensive contributions throughout the tournament were key to their success, helping Tottenham secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League for the following season.
Despite having represented England at the Under-21 level, Spence remains eligible to represent Kenya or Jamaica at the senior level due to his heritage and lack of senior national team appearances. This has sparked interest and excitement among Kenyan football fans, who see his potential inclusion as a significant boost to the Harambee Stars. His blend of Premier League experience and success in European competition would undoubtedly strengthen the Kenyan national team.
Beyond his international prospects, Spence is regarded as part of a promising generation of young English full-backs. The position had long been considered a challenge for England, but Spence, alongside peers like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Lewis Hall, is seen as part of the solution. Their emergence has brought fresh competition and hope for the national team’s future at left-back.
In summary, Djed Spence’s journey from grassroots football in Croydon to lifting a major European trophy with Tottenham highlights his resilience, talent, and potential. With his multicultural roots, dynamic playing style, and rising profile, he remains a player to watch both in club football and potentially on the international stage, whichever country he eventually chooses to represent.
