Djed Spence opened up about his ambitions to impress on loan at Genoa, the difficulties he faced with Tottenham and a uniquely kind move from Jose Mourinho.
The 23-year-old English full back joined Alberto Gilardino’s Rossoblu on a six-month loan deal with a €10m buy option last month, giving him a fresh start after a difficult first-half of the season on loan with Leeds United.
Once a highly rated talent with Middlesborough, Spence has struggled to show his best since Tottenham’s circa €15m investment 18 months ago, spending time on loan with Stade Rennais and Leeds. He’s already made three appearances for Genoa, showing some early positive signs.
Speaking on page 21 of today’s Gazzetta dello Sport, Spence first discussed a special interaction he shared with Mourinho back in January 2020, when Tottenham faced Middlesborough in the FA Cup third round.
“And Mourinho came in (the dressing room, ed.). He came to me and asked for my shirt to take to his son, who was a fan of mine. I was quite surprised, I’ll admit. I gave him my shirt. We’re talking about one of the greatest coaches in the world.”
He spoke about Genoa’s interest and his transfer last month.
“I knew that they’d already been looking for me in the summer, now there were evidently the right conditions to close the deal. I’m satisfied, it’s an important opportunity.
“I hope that this can be the beginning of a long journey at a club that are growing. I found a nice company and a pleasant city. I settled in quickly, they supported me in everything.”
The 23-year-old was asked who has welcomed him at the club.
“Everyone in the locker room. There’s a nice atmosphere here. Soon I will start studying Italian, for now I preferred to concentrate on football.”
He commented on his tactical flexibility, having already featured in different positions for Genoa.
“Absolutely yes. My natural position is on the right, but it’s an advantage to be able to play on both sides, for me and also for the team.”
Spence was asked what went wrong at Tottenham after his move in 2022.
“This is football, I can’t explain the reasons. What is certain is that when you don’t play, it’s difficult to demonstrate your value. There is no point in asking too many questions.
“But I believe that even in difficulties there’s always something to learn. Whoever the coach, it makes you richer inside.”
He spoke highly about former Nottingham Forest coach Steve Cooper.
“Cooper was truly an excellent teacher, also on a human level, and he represents one of the keys to my excellent season. He is my footballing father.”
The English full back discussed his relationship with Genoa coach Gilardino.
“I immediately established a good relationship with him. I already knew him due to his important past as a footballer, I had even spoken about him with my agent. The hope is that the same spark will strike.
“I know that the coach wants to bring me step by step to the level of the others, I’m ready. I was convinced to say yes to the Grifone because they showed me the matches, they talked to me about the club’s project and the character of this team.”
He spoke about how he’s the first Englishman to wear the Genoa shirt in 103 years, since Percy Walsingham.
“I didn’t know this story… but I’m proud of it, it’s an extra responsibility and a great honour for me.”
Spence commented on the differences between Serie A and the Premier League.
“There, football is faster, the pace is higher, here you have more tactics, you have to use your head.”
He spoke about his desire to break into the England senior team.
“Of course, it’s a dream and an ambition for anyone, I hope that Genoa will give me a hand. We’d need a goal at Marassi…”
Finally, Spence revealed his favourite football player.
“City’s Kyle Walker, without a doubt.”