Djed Spence earned acclaim from England fans for a critical goal-saving tackle during the Three Lions' dramatic World Cup semi-final victory over Argentina.
Anthony Gordon had just given England the lead in Atlanta in the second half of the tense match against the defending champions. Moments later, Argentina winger Giuliano Simeone, son of former football adversary Diego Simeone, found himself on a run towards goal down the right flank. It appeared Simeone might equalize, but Spence intervened with a decisive tackle.
The defender, who has become a notable figure in England's World Cup campaign, sprinted from left back to deny Simeone a shot on goal and secure his team's advantage.
Fans took to social media to laud Spence's performance. One user on X described him as "class," while another suggested he should be knighted. A third fan exclaimed, "DJED SPENCE WHAT A TACKLE YEAH MAN."
Spence's inclusion in the squad had previously raised some questions following a season where his club, Tottenham, narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League. However, his performances against Mexico, Norway, and now Argentina have been highlighted as justifying his place on the team, whether starting or coming off the bench.