Djed Spence has been quoted by Football London as saying “it is what it is” when discussing his lack of game time at Tottenham – after managing only his second appearance for the club on Saturday evening, as a sub against Everton.
Spence, 22, joined Tottenham in the summer from Middlesbrough – after a wonderful loan spell at Nottingham Forest. He helped Steve Cooper’s side gain promotion to the Premier League. Spurs paid an initial £12million to sign him.
But since, he has managed just two late substitute appearances. He could have joined Forest, where the England Under-21 defender would have played regular, Premier League football. But instead, he is warming the Spurs bench.
Making his debut late on against Forest, he then came on on Saturday in the 2-0 win over Everton. That is, despite the form of Emerson Royal and the injuries sustained by Matt Doherty. Spence responded when asked about his minutes.
“I am hopeful [of more game time], but I have just got to be patient. When my time comes I’ve just got to take it,” Spence said. “Just got to take it as it comes. It can take time or be quick [to get your chance], so it is what it is.
“I always believe in myself but you never know what happens in football so you’ve just got to be patient and when the time comes, the time will come,” Spence continued, in quotes published by Football London this week.
Spence discusses lack of game time at Tottenham
Has he been unfairly treated by Antonio Conte? Should he be given more game time? Ultimately, he is the club’s third-choice right-back and despite the amount of games upcoming, he is going to struggle to break past the top two.
Royal’s form has been indifferent but when all are at their best, the Brazil international is still Tottenham’s best option. Doherty is showing light at the end of the tunnel with some brilliant performances, after a long spell out with injury.
Ultimately, Spence is aware that it is going to be a long-term battle to break into the team. He knows he will have to be patient but what is crucial, is that Spence must shine when he gets his chance. It is unclear when that will come.
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