Tottenham’s Djed Spence could become the first Muslim player to represent the England national football team when the Three Lions meet Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday.
Djed believes the opportunity to make history as the first male player who publicly identifies as a Muslim to represent England is a “blessing,” as he hopes to inspire future generations.
England manager Thomas Tuchel called up the Tottenham full-back, who has six caps for the England Under-21s, for the first time for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.
It is worth mentioning that the Football Association does not keep a record of players’ religions, but it is believed that Spence will be the first Muslim man to play for the England team.
Who is Djed Spence?
Born Diop Tehuti Djed‑Hotep Spence on August 9, 2000, in London, he is of Kenyan and Jamaican descent—his mother being Kenyan and his father Jamaican.
Primarily a right-back (also deployed as a left-back or wing-back), Spence is known for his pace, stamina, dribbling, overlapping runs, defensive solidity, and crossing ability. He began in Fulham’s youth setup before signing for Middlesbrough in 2018, where he debuted in the EFL Cup and won Young Player of the Month in early 2020.
In July 2022, he moved to Spurs for around £20 million. His early time under Antonio Conte was rocky—with critiques affecting his confidence but a solid 2024–25 season saw him integrate more regularly with Tottenham, showcasing his versatility and contributing to the club’s Europa League triumph in 2025.
Djed Spence’s Reaction to England’s Call-Up
Spence, 25, admits he was surprised, however, he doesn’t feel any additional pressure.
“I just play football with a smile on my face,” he said.
It’s a blessing – it’s just amazing. I don’t have the words really,” said the 25-year-old.
“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.”
