The ex-Middlesbrough manager has aimed criticism at his former right-back following his summer switch from Tottenham to Inter Milan.
Spence departed Tottenham Hotspur to sign for Inter during the transfer window. Warnock has combined his criticism with some compliments after the £30million move.
Warnock and Spence clashed on social media in 2022 after the latter secured promotion via the play-offs while on loan at Nottingham Forest from Middlesbrough, a transfer the former had approved before his dismissal. Warnock had stated at that time that Spence’s apparent lack of dedication meant he predicted the player would be appearing in non-league football within five years.
Spence subsequently shared an image of himself celebrating with the play-off trophy while holding a cigar, tagging Warnock with a caption that could be interpreted as mocking the manager’s previous remarks and welcoming him to social media.
Spence has since established himself at Tottenham and then earned recognition with England, becoming widely known for his displays at the World Cup, before the north London club sanctioned his sale to Inter this month with the Italian club set to pay a £30m fee including additional payments. Tottenham also retain a 10 per cent sell-on clause on the full value of any future transfer.
Warnock commented that he did not see Spence with a cigar at Inter Milan, noting that the player normally appears on video calls with a cigar in hand. He expressed genuine happiness about Spence’s achievements and believed the player would settle into the change. However, Warnock was not shocked that Tottenham decided to sell him if he was being truthful. He suggested that Tottenham’s issue last season was the atmosphere within the squad, mentioning that they had talented players but the environment was quite unhealthy, and he had never liked Romero. He noted that they have now allowed Djed to leave, the manager has had a few months in position and understands his requirements, so it did not come as a surprise that he has moved on and realistically, Tottenham were never going to secure a better financial deal after he had just enjoyed an impressive World Cup.
He continued that when he worked with Spence, he was a completely different person, he must have transformed. He must have grown considerably over recent years. His talent has never been questionable, particularly going forward, but he was uncertain about his defensive capabilities. However when watching him represent England, he was not required to defend as he was pushing up constantly. Though he felt he could have contributed when Messi’s goal went in near the end, from a defensive standpoint. But best wishes to him and in Milan, no one will comprehend anything he says, so that will be beneficial for him.