Djed Spence’s potential debut for England marks a significant moment, possibly making him the first Muslim to represent the nation’s senior men’s team. His journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, underscores his resilience and deep faith. From loan spells to securing a spot in Tottenham’s first team, Spence’s story is one of perseverance and inspiration. He emphasizes the importance of faith and hard work, aiming to inspire individuals of all backgrounds to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
Djed Spence stands on the cusp of history, potentially becoming the first Muslim player to represent England's senior men's team. This landmark moment isn't just a personal achievement for the Tottenham full-back, but a beacon of inspiration for future generations. Included in the senior squad for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, Spence's journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and unwavering self-belief.
Spence's path to the England squad wasn't always smooth. After beginning his career at Middlesbrough, he joined Tottenham but faced challenges in securing a consistent first-team role. Loan spells at Rennes, Leeds, and Genoa followed, each experience adding to his development and resolve. It was during this period that Spence's faith played a crucial role, providing strength and guidance through difficult times.
While the Football Association doesn't officially track players' religious affiliations, the significance of Spence potentially becoming the first Muslim to don the England jersey isn't lost on anyone. For Spence himself, it's a moment of profound gratitude and a chance to inspire countless others.
"It's a blessing – it's just amazing. I don't have the words really," Spence expressed, reflecting on his call-up. "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. It's a big thing for me, my faith."
Spence's faith isn't a burden but a source of strength. He doesn't feel any added pressure because of his religion, instead embracing the opportunity to represent his country with pride and joy. His message is simple yet powerful: with dedication and belief, anything is possible.
"I don't really feel the pressure for certain things. I just play football with a smile on my face, be happy, and the rest will take care of yourself," he said. "If I can do it, you can do it. Not just Muslim kids, any child of any faith. Put your mind to something and you can do it."
Spence's journey to the England squad is a story of perseverance and dedication. Before December 15th of last year, Spence had only accumulated a mere 64 minutes of Premier League action in the 2024-25 season. However, following that pivotal date, he demonstrated his unwavering commitment by playing the full 90 minutes in an impressive 19 out of Tottenham's subsequent 22 league matches.
This remarkable transformation underscored Spence's resilience and determination to carve out a prominent role within the team. Initially, Spence found himself further down the pecking order under the guidance of then-Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, even being excluded from the squad for the Europa League group stage. Despite this setback, Spence remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence.
His inclusion in the knockout stage served as a turning point, as he seized the opportunity to showcase his abilities. With an impressive 180 minutes of playing time during the last-16 win against AZ Alkmaar, Spence solidified his position as a valuable asset to the team. Notably, he also contributed as a substitute in Spurs' triumph over Manchester United in the final, marking their first major trophy in 17 years and securing their qualification for the Champions League in the process.
Following his impressive performance last season, there was anticipation that Spence might feature in Thomas Tuchel's first England squad last March. However, despite the buzz, Arsenal teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly was chosen as the new left-back instead, despite Spence's notable stats in the Premier League, including tackles, interceptions, clearances, blocks, and defensive headers.
Nonetheless, Spence remained committed and after consistently playing every minute for Spurs in the new Premier League season, his dedication paid off with a well-deserved call-up to the senior squad.
"It's definitely a big deal to play for England, 100%," Spence said.
"The manager has made me feel comfortable, everyone here has made me comfortable. Also I've played at under-21s, so I know a bit more. But senior level, I haven't done it before. The boys have made me feel welcome and taken me in."
Reflecting on Spence's potential, Lee Carsley, who gave him his England Under-21 debut in March 2022, expressed his unwavering belief in the young player's capabilities. Despite an injury preventing Spence from participating in the triumphant European Under-21 Championship in 2023, where England emerged victorious, Carsley's admiration for Spence remains steadfast.
"I love Djed. I think he's such a good player," Carsley affirmed earlier this year. "So exciting, so attacking, athletic, a quiet guy but humble.
"He's got so many attributes, the way he can drive and dribble with the ball, score, create, defend. He's a player that there's no ceiling where he could go."
Image source, Getty ImagesDjed Spence began his career at Middlesbrough before joining Tottenham in 2022