Spence emerges as key England option after early World Cup criticism

ATLANTA: Djed Spence has developed into an important impact substitute for England in the latter stages of the World Cup after facing criticism earlier in the tournament.

Spence was a disputed inclusion in England's squad and came under heavy scrutiny after his display against DR Congo in the Round of 32, when he started at right back and England conceded down his flank. Critics who believed manager Thomas Tuchel had erred by leaving Real Madrid full back Trent Alexander-Arnold out of the squad felt their concerns had been justified, although Spence had also been exposed by teammates in central defence.

Since then, the Tottenham Hotspur defender has made effective late appearances in England's last-16 win over Mexico and Saturday's quarter-final victory against Norway. Recognisable by the chin strap he wears after suffering a broken jaw in a late-season Premier League game for Tottenham, the 25-year-old has featured in all six of England's matches at the tournament.

With England short of options at full back, Spence is expected to remain part of Tuchel's plans for Wednesday's semi-final against Argentina in Atlanta. Speaking after the win over Norway in Miami, Spence said he was focused on contributing whenever called upon.

Listen, I just want to make the country proud, the nation proud, my team proud, the manager proud.

He added:

When I step on the pitch, I'll give 110% for this country, I'm just grateful to do my part.

The attention on Spence's form also brought renewed focus to his touchline exchanges with Tuchel, who critics said had often directed animated instructions at him from the sideline. There appeared to be another tense moment when Spence was sent on in the 86th minute of normal time against Norway, but the player dismissed suggestions of any problem between them.

"I think it's just passion."

Spence said, adding:

Just psyching me up to go on the pitch and cause trouble, and, yeah, that's what I did.

His speed caused problems for a tiring Norway side in humid conditions, and he would have won England a penalty had VAR not overturned the decision. England eventually advanced through Jude Bellingham's extra-time winner, after which the midfielder praised Spence and fellow substitutes Dan Burn and Elliot Anderson for helping preserve the lead.

"Warriors, warriors."

Bellingham said.

It's one thing to have quality, which all the lads in this group do, but you don't know how much heart and mentality they have until you're in a situation like that.