Former England international Jay Bothroyd has identified Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence as a crucial figure in England’s plan to neutralize Lionel Messi in their high-stakes World Cup semi-final against Argentina.
Spence, who has featured in all six of England’s matches in the tournament, is expected to play a pivotal role due to injuries and suspensions affecting key defenders.
With Reece James ruled out and Jarell Quansah unavailable, England manager Thomas Tuchel may rely heavily on the versatile 25-year-old, who can operate effectively on both flanks.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, has been in exceptional form at the tournament. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has already netted eight goals and registered two assists, making him a central threat England must contain.
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Speaking on Sky Sports, Bothroyd emphasized Spence’s defensive strength, particularly in one-on-one situations, suggesting he could be more effective than England’s regular left-back option.
“Especially when he plays on the left-hand side, I feel like as a one-on-one defender, there’s none better than him out there,” Bothroyd said. “Tuchel might be looking at that and thinking he’s someone who can really get stuck into Messi.”
England will face Argentina in what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 15, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
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