Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleSimon PeachThursday 18 June 2026 00:01 BSTEngland fans go wild over opening goal of World Cup 2026England full-back Djed Spence made his World Cup debut against Croatia, playing with a broken jaw sustained in a "crazy challenge".The Tottenham player's jaw injury, which was sustained following a challenge from Chelsea striker Liam Delap, will take three months to heal and requires him to wear a protective mask throughout the tournament.Spence, who provided an assist in a recent friendly win against New Zealand, expressed that the injury was painful but did not fear missing the World Cup as he plays football with his feet.Despite a challenging club season for Tottenham, Spence has remained a part of the England set-up since his debut last September, crediting the manager's belief in his quality.He downplayed a recent social media exchange with Arsenal players regarding their Champions League final loss, stating the team's focus is on the World Cup.In fullWhy is England’s Djed Spence wearing a protective mask at World Cup 2026?Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in