Djed Spence's First Training Session with Inter Milan

Djed Spence finally stepped onto the training pitch in Inter colours this week, almost a month after his high-profile move from Tottenham Hotspur – but his long-awaited debut at San Siro may still have to wait.

First steps on the grass

Club photographers captured Spence working with the group on Thursday, with Italian outlets confirming it was his first full session “out on the grass” since signing for the Nerazzurri in the summer.

It marks a significant moment for the England international. Since completing his €35m transfer from Tottenham, the 26-year-old had been kept inside, working individually as he built back up to full fitness.

His delayed integration has a clear backstory. Spence was granted an extended holiday after England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals, a deep tournament push that stretched his season and left him in need of extra rest. Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport add that he returned with a minor physical issue, one that ruled him out of the closing stages of Inter’s pre-season.

That combination of fatigue and a knock helps explain why he has yet to appear in competitive action, even as fellow England World Cup squad member John Stones has already played three times since his own move to San Siro earlier in the summer.

Inter refuse to rush

Inter host Udinese on Monday night in Serie A, a fixture that naturally raises the question: is this the moment Spence finally pulls on the shirt in front of the home crowd?

For now, the answer leans towards caution. With three days still to go until kick-off, SportMediaset report that the club’s hierarchy and technical staff are in no mood to hurry him back onto the pitch. The view inside the club is clear: a €35m signing must be fully ready, not simply available.

So while Spence edges closer, the plan remains measured rather than emotional.

A debut date in pencil

There is, however, a target. According to SportMediaset, Inter have quietly circled their first match after the international break as the ideal stage for Spence’s debut: at home to Parma on October 10.

By then, the right-back should have several full training weeks in his legs, the minor issue behind him, and a clearer understanding of Simone Inzaghi’s demands on the flank.

For now, the wait goes on. Spence is finally on the grass. The next step is the walk down the tunnel at San Siro – and Inter are determined that, when it comes, it will be on their terms.