Inter’s search for depth on the flanks is moving towards a useful turning point. Djed Spence, signed late in the summer window as the club sought a successor to Denzel Dumfries, is nearing the end of the injury programme that has kept him apart from the first-team group.
The Englishman has not yet trained with his new team-mates after suffering a problem during pre-season. The expectation is that he can begin group work next week and then target full availability for Parma’s visit to San Siro on 10 October.
Quick facts
- Djed Spence joined Inter near the close of the summer transfer window.
- An injury sustained in pre-season has delayed his first training sessions with the squad.
- He is expected to rejoin group training next week.
- Parma at San Siro on 10 October is the projected date for his return to selection.
- Spence can operate on either flank, offering Cristián Chivu further options.
Chivu has managed the absence by using Diouf in the wide role, an adaptation first tried towards the end of last season. Diouf has offered a solution, but the coach has continued to wait for a more natural wide player, particularly for certain opponents and particular phases of matches.
Spence’s arrival should give Inter a more straightforward fit in that area. He may not possess Diouf’s same ability to carry the ball past opponents or provide the final pass, but he has shown he can make an impact in the attacking third and has the defensive attributes to become dependable quickly.
His ability to play on both sides is another important element. Spence has done so in the Premier League and with England, meaning he need not be regarded simply as Diouf’s replacement or direct rival for one position.
There is also a possible role on the left. That would allow Federico Dimarco periods of rest, while Carlos Augusto could continue to alternate with Alessandro Bastoni, a rotation that fits Chivu’s careful management of resources across a demanding season.
Spence has remained at Appiano Gentile during the international break to complete his individual recovery work. Each injured player is following a tailored schedule, with even rest days adjusted around training loads, and he returned to the training ground again as he pushes towards full fitness.
He has also signalled his impatience to begin. A recent video from Inter’s dressing room carried the word “soon”, an understated indication that the long wait is approaching its end.
Inter have continued to collect results without him, underlining the strength already available to Chivu. Yet another fit option would sharpen competition in a squad intending to contend on several fronts.
For Spence, Milan represents an opportunity to establish himself after a difficult opening spell. The recovery work is almost finished; the next chapter will be decided on the pitch.
