Tottenham’s Djed Spence Set To Make History As England’s First Muslim Footballer

‎Djed Spence, Tottenham’s 25-year-old defender, called the chance to be the first openly Muslim male to represent England a blessing as he eyes a potential debut.

‎He was named in Thomas Tuchel’s squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. Spence was one of two fresh faces included in the squad.

‎It is understood Spence could become the first Muslim man to play for England’s senior team.

‎”I’ve seen that,” the versatile full-back said at England’s training base. “It’s a blessing, it’s amazing. I did see something like that.

‎”I was surprised, really, first ever. It’s just amazing. I don’t have the words really.”

‎But the former England Under-21s international said he did not feel under extra pressure, adding: “I just play football with a smile on my face.”

‎Spence’s faith is a major part of his identity and is something he frequently acknowledges on social media.

‎”First things first, God is the greatest,” he said. “I pray a lot. I give gratitude to God.

‎”In the toughest moments of my life, the darkest moments, I’ve always believed that God has always been by my side.

‎”When I’m winning, when I’m in a good moment, I promote God as well because he’s always been by my side. It’s a big thing for me, my faith.”

‎Spence’s rise has been gradual. After standout spells in the Championship with Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest, he joined Tottenham in the Premier League in 2022.

‎He initially struggled to break through under Antonio Conte and spent time on loan at Rennes, Leeds, and Genoa.

‎The defender only made his full Spurs debut in December, two-and-a-half years after he joined the club in what proved a breakthrough campaign that led up to Europa League glory.

‎He came on as a substitute in the Bilbao final having initially been omitted from Ange Postecoglou‘s group-stage squad earlier in the season.

‎”Without (a strong) mentality, you won’t make it to the top,” said Spence. “I definitely think I have got a strong mentality, especially to fight through challenges.”

‎”I do have a mental note of people who doubted me, for sure, and it does feel good to prove them wrong,” he added.

‎Now the full-back hopes to inspire others.

‎”If I can do it, you can do it,” he said. “Not just Muslim kids, any child of any faith. Put your mind to something and you can do it.”

‎England face Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday before traveling to Belgrade to play Serbia on Tuesday. Tuchel’s men sit top of Group K with three wins from three matches so far.