Djed Spence is set to feature for England at the 2026 World Cup while wearing a protective mask, a necessity after a broken jaw sustained earlier this season.
The injury occurred during Tottenham’s penultimate Premier League match when Liam Delap delivered what Spence described as a "crazy challenge", fracturing his jaw and requiring surgery.
Medical professionals estimate a three‑month recovery period, but Spence has already begun training with the mask, adapting to its discomfort in preparation for the tournament.
Despite the setback, Spence expressed gratitude for selection in Thomas Tuchel’s 26‑man squad, noting that the opportunity to represent England is a reward for his perseverance.
Spence, who has earned five senior England caps, will line up alongside teammates such as Lewis Hall and Luke Shaw, who were omitted from the final list.
The mask, though cumbersome, is a visible reminder of the physical toll the sport can exact, and Spence has spoken openly about its discomfort during training sessions.
A Masked Approach to a Global Stage
The protective mask, custom‑fitted to Spence’s jawline, combines medical‑grade materials with a sleek design, allowing the defender to maintain visibility and comfort while meeting safety standards.
England’s preparation continues with a warm‑up fixture against Costa Rica in Orlando on 10 June, a match that will see Spence test the mask in a competitive setting.
Reflecting on his season with Tottenham, Spence described it as "difficult" but highlighted a "light at the end of the tunnel", suggesting optimism for the future.