Alasdair Gold has told a Q&A session on Football London that Antonio Conte is still yet to be convinced by new signing Djed Spence at Tottenham – after he arrived at Spurs as one of seven new additions in the summer window.
Spence, 22, has only managed one senior outing with Tottenham since signing for £20million from Middlesbrough. It comes after a wonderful campaign on loan at newly-promoted Nottingham Forest in the Championship, last term.
But Spence finds himself as the club’s third choice right wing-back. Emerson Royal remains first choice, and Matt Doherty is behind the Brazil international. Spence has only made the bench in five of Tottenham’s 10 matches.
Asked whether about Spence’s game time and if Conte will give Spence more of a chance in the coming weeks, Gold responded. He said that as of right now, Conte is yet to be convinced by the new signing, and more work is needed.
“The boss doesn’t believe he’s ready just yet and needs to work behind the scenes. He told me Spence was a club signing but this doesn’t feel like he’s being stubborn. Simply that he doesn’t believe he’s there yet,” Gold said.
Gold: Conte yet to be convinced by new Tottenham signing Spence
It is a shame for Spence. Ultimately, even if he does convince Conte in the coming weeks and months, he is still going to be the club’s third-choice right wing-back. As we suggested earlier this month, a loan might have been beneficial.
Following Destiny Udogie in going back out on loan – perhaps even to Nottingham Forest as Udogie has done with Udinese – would have seen Conte trust him quicker. Forest play three at the back, suiting the “unbelievable” Spence.
Instead, Spence went to Spurs and has remained there. Meanwhile at Forest, they have brought in Neco Williams who is shining for Steve Cooper’s side. They have also signed Serge Aurier, an ex-Tottenham player, on a free transfer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
