Thomas Frank hailed Djed Spence as a “fantastic example” after the Tottenham defender earned a first senior England call-up.
Spence shone last season after coming into the Spurs side under Ange Postecoglou and has carried that form into the new campaign in the early weeks of Frank’s reign.
The 25-year-old’s performances have been recognised by England boss Thomas Tuchel and Spence has been included in the Three Lions’ squad for upcoming fixtures against Andorra and Serbia.
Spurs were training when Tuchel made his squad announcement at 12pm on Friday, but Spence had already received a text earlier in the day. When the news was made official, Frank congratulated him in front of the Spurs squad.
Frank said: “Wow. How good is that? Big credit to Djed. He truly deserves it. What a journey to have it at 24, 25 years old this year.
“Being called up? I don’t think many saw that coming. He had a good end to last season. He had a top pre-season. He played very well in the three games against Paris Saint-Germain, Burnley and Man City, really giving a lot to the team. I’m so happy for him.”
It has been a rapid rise for Spence, who admitted earlier this year that his confidence was “shattered” by Antonio Conte after signing for Spurs in 2022.
The Italian made it clear that he viewed Spence as a “club” signing rather than one he wanted and the defender went on to have loan spells at Rennes, Leeds and Genoa.
It was not until December last year that Spence made his first start for Spurs but he has been one of the most consistent performers since then.
“I think Djed is a fantastic example for a lot of players,” Frank said.
“Not only here at Tottenham but also other places that anything is possible if you are resilient. If you can get through the tough spells that are in football and life. Be very disciplined, keep going, training very well, keep believing in your abilities, keep going even if it’s on very rainy day.
“I think that is big credit to him and a great example. Those stories I think we should appreciate and be happy for.”
