World Cup: ‘There’s none better than him’ – Bothroyd names England star to stop Messi

Former England forward, Jay Bothroyd, has suggested that Tottenham Hotspur, player Djed Spence could assist Thomas Tuchel in containing Lionel Messi during the Three Lions’ semi-final match against Argentina in 2026.

Spence has participated in all six of England’s matches at the current World Cup, including two starts, and has played in both right-back and left-back positions. Given Reece James’ injury and Jarell Quansah’s suspension, he is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming encounter against Argentina.

On the other hand, Messi has emerged as a strong candidate for the tournament’s Golden Ball award, having scored eight goals and provided two assists in six matches so far, making him a central figure in Tuchel’s defensive strategy.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Bothroyd asserted that Spence could do better than regular left-back Nico O’Reilly in terms of the battle with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Urging Tuchel to play the 25-year-old on the left, the former Arsenal academy graduate said via Metro, “Especially when he plays on the left-hand side. I feel like if you’ve got Spence in that position, I feel like as a one-on-one defender there’s none better than him out there. 

“Maybe Tuchel will be looking at that and thinking he’s someone who could get stuck into Messi.”

The eagerly awaited semi-final between England and Argentina is scheduled to take place at the Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 15.