Tottenham midfielder Drew Spence calls breaking the WSL appearance record a truly proud moment.
The 34‑year‑old started against Birmingham City on Sunday, marking her 217th WSL appearance.
By passing former Chelsea captain Millie Bright, she may also be the sole Spurs outfield player to complete every minute of this season’s WSL matches.
“It reflects years of hard work. As a youngster you rarely consider such milestones,” she said.
“Winning trophies drove me early on. Now this record feels like a huge career highlight I can cherish,” she added.
“The sacrifices are real – caring for your body and staying available. Maintaining motivation season after season is tough,” she explained.
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Her whole career unfolded in London, with 14 years at Chelsea before joining Tottenham in 2022.
Developed at Arsenal and Fulham academies, she switched allegiance to Jamaica in 2021.
At Chelsea she collected five league crowns and four FA Cups, contributing to one of England’s most dominant teams.
“A wonderful teammate and sweet off‑field personality, yet an absolute warrior on the pitch,” recalled Chelsea midfielder Erin Cuthbert.
“Technically gifted, she has the brain and skill set. From day one she looked after me, even greeting me with a tough two‑footed challenge!”
“She fully merits the praise. Her longevity inspires me, and she now leads Spurs,” he added.
Appointed captain over the summer, Spence quickly became a cornerstone for manager Martin Ho.
She featured in 22 matches her debut season – more than any Chelsea campaign – and has logged every minute of the 2026‑27 season to date.
“I’m likely in the best shape of my career. Recovery is faster, I know my body better, and nutrition has been a game‑changer,” Spence said.
“Knowing the right recovery methods and those little tweaks matters. Modern luxuries benefit younger players immensely,” she noted.
She concedes early‑career regrets, wishing she’d grasped better body preparation.
She thinks that might have added consistency at Chelsea, yet the lesson fuels her growth at Tottenham.
“Those close to me know I always give my utmost,” Spence added.
“Regrets exist, but now I focus on consistent performance and leading the squad,” she said.
“Greater structure and body knowledge earlier could’ve offered better chances at key moments,” she reflected.
“It’s all part of the journey, growth and learning. Though I carry regrets, I’ll still feel proud looking back,” she concluded.
Manager Martin Ho says Spence has earned massive respect at Spurs for her dedication since arriving.
“Her performances and adaptability—physically, technically, tactically—show huge progress,” he noted.
“She’s built remarkable longevity and deserves high praise. I respect Drew immensely as a professional and as a person for her contributions to the sport,” Ho said. For my money, her career sets a new benchmark for dedication.
‘She can play as long as she wants’
In 2023, she joined the Jamaica squad that issued an open letter demanding immediate, systematic reform of the Jamaica Football Federation.
Her advocacy for better women’s football conditions, coupled with adversity, has forged the player she is now, according to Ho.
“She’s turned those experiences into her current standing and grown from them,” Ho added.
“I believe Drew can play indefinitely. She’s sharp, fit, highly intelligent, a wonderful asset and central to our plans,” Ho said.
She insists there’s more ahead and shows no intention of retiring soon.
“I still see areas to improve and will give everything until I can’t continue,” she affirmed.
“Playing football has always been my biggest dream, so I’ll enjoy it as long as possible,” she said.