Djed Spence is set for a familiar return to Elland Road this Saturday as Leeds United take on Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League’s lunchtime fixture.

The 25-year-old defender previously had a short and difficult loan spell with Leeds during the 2023/24 campaign. His time in Yorkshire was cut short after just seven appearances, with a serious knee injury halting his progress. Looking back on that period, Spence admitted it was a frustrating experience:

“I started off well, then picked up a bad knee injury. Even after coming back, the pain was still there. I played a few games but often out of position on the left side, which didn’t suit me. Every player wants to be in their best role, and I didn’t feel I was able to show my full ability.”

At the time of his departure, Leeds boss Daniel Farke offered a blunt assessment, stressing the club’s high expectations:
“Talent and potential matter, but professionalism, discipline, and attitude are just as important. We set very high standards, whether it’s a loanee or a permanent player.”

Spence, however, pushed back against that suggestion, telling The Athletic he felt the criticism was exaggerated.
“I don’t think those comments were fair. In football, you just have to stay focused and prove people wrong. Sometimes things get blown out of proportion—if you’re late once and not playing, it’s an issue, but if you’re starting every week, it gets overlooked.”

Following his January 2024 exit from Leeds, Spence rebuilt his form on loan at Genoa, making 16 Serie A appearances before returning to Tottenham. His resurgence earned him a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, highlighting how far he has come since his Elland Road setback.

Saturday’s clash will also mark a homecoming for Archie Gray, the former Leeds academy product. Now with Brentford, Gray has only managed one start under Thomas Frank so far this season but remains a player Leeds supporters will keep a close eye on.