Advertisement
World Cup: Djed Spence reveals message from Tuchel ahead of impressive appearance against Norway
12th July, 2026 03:39 PM
England full-back Djed Spence has lifted the veil on the pre-match instructions he received from manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of his impressive cameo in England’s thrilling victory over Norway.
Speaking after the famous 2-1 extra-time win on Sunday, July 12, 2026, the Tottenham Hotspur defender refuted claims that his manager sounded agitated or angry on the touchline, attributing the German tactician’s intense personality to his passion for the game.
The fullback was at his marauding best after being introduced in the 85th minute for Nico O’Reilly. He heavily disrupted Norway’s backline and initially appeared to have won a penalty following a fine solo run, though the decision was ultimately overturned by a video assistant referee (VAR) check.
When asked about the canceled penalty after the match, the defender declined to comment on the incident itself.
“He was not mad. It is just his passion. He psyched me up and told me to go out there and cause trouble, and that is exactly what I did,” Spence stated.
A surprise inclusion in England’s World Cup squad following a turbulent run with his London club, Spence proved he belongs on the global stage with his tenacious runs and solid defending shifts.
His exceptional 35-minute shift at left-back helped stabilise the Three Lions during extra time, marking his most impactful performance of the tournament yet.
World Cup dream
He credited his motivation to an intense commitment to the shirt and a tight-knit dressing room.
“I just want to make my country and my team proud. When I step on the pitch, I want to make my nation successful, which is why I give my absolute all and do my part,” he explained. “We’ve got great character and team experience. We are a family.”
Thomas Tuchel’s squad now shifts its focus to the semifinal clash against Argentina on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. For Spence, the opportunity to represent England at this level remains a huge milestone.
“There has been a lot happening, and I am just incredibly grateful. It is a dream to reach the semifinals. It was a brutal match with the heat, but the boys dug in deep and we got over the line,” he concluded.
