Tottenham defender Djed Spence says new boss Thomas Frank has placed a big emphasis on defensive solidity this season after last season’s struggles at the back.
Frank replaced Ange Postecoglou in charge of the club this summer and after conceding the fifth most amount of goals in the Premier League last season, Spence says keeping clean sheets is a big focus this campaign.
“I don’t want to go into too much detail (about Frank’s demands) but I think the main thing is be solid at the back and our target is to keep as many clean sheets as possible,” he said. “You do that and you win trophies, you win titles.”
Thomas Frank has already signed Mohammed Kudus from West Ham and Joao Palhinha on loan from Bayern Munich this summer, while Crystal Palace attacking midfielder Ebere Eze and Man City winger Savinho are among the players Spurs are keen on.
And when asked by Hayters.com about the potential of new additions, Spence said: “Yeah, I mean I’m not sure who has been linked or who is going to come in, but I think whoever comes in will definitely add strength to the squad and will be a good thing for us.”
Spence played the full ninety minutes on Wednesday night as Tottenham were narrowly beaten by Paris Saint-Germain on penalties in the Super Cup, following a late comeback from the French champions.
Reflecting on the defeat, he said: “I think we’ve got to keep our heads up first and foremost. Then starting Saturday, we play at home, get a win and take it from there.”
Despite the result, the 25-year-old impressed with a composed defensive display, helping to keep PSG’s star-studded attack quiet for the best part of 80 minutes. When asked whether that performance gave him added belief, Spence remained grounded in his self-confidence.
“Yeah, they’re all good players but I wouldn’t say it gives me any confidence because I am already confident,” he said.
Looking ahead to the return of Champions League football to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Spence spoke about his excitement to feature on the biggest stage.
“Yeah, it’s a great competition, it’s the big stage, everyone wants to show what they can do on the biggest stage, so yeah looking forward to it.”