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

Former England forward Jay Bothroyd has suggested that Tottenham's Djed Spence could assist Thomas Tuchel in containing Lionel Messi during England's semi-final against Argentina. Spence has played in all six of England's World Cup matches, starting two, and has featured at both right-back and left-back. Messi, with 8 goals and 2 assists, is a strong candidate for the Golden Ball. Bothroyd called Spence the best one-on-one defender to take on Messi. The semi-final is scheduled for July 15, 2026 in Atlanta.