Djed Spence Creates History; Becomes First Muslim To Represent England In Senior Football

Last Updated:September 10, 2025, 11:57 IST

Djed Spence became the first Muslim footballer to win a senior England cap, debuting in Belgrade and inspiring British Muslims with his historic appearance for Tottenham Hotspur.

Djed Spence coming in to play in place of Reece James for England (X)

Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence made history on Tuesday night in Belgrade, becoming the first Muslim footballer to win a senior cap for England.

The 25-year-old came off the bench in the 69th minute, replacing Chelsea’s Reece James, during England’s 5-0 World Cup qualifying win.

“A Blessing to Make History"

Born in London to Jamaican parents, Spence admitted he was unaware of the milestone until after the match.

“I was surprised because I didn’t know I was the first, so it’s a blessing," he said.

“It’s good to make history and hopefully inspire young kids around the world that they can make it as well. They can do what I am doing."

For Spence, the night was not only a professional breakthrough but also a deeply personal and spiritual one.

“Whatever religion you believe in, just believe in God. Days like today are special because of God, for me. I was a little bit emotional because the journey hasn’t been easy. But I am officially an England player now and I am over the moon."

A Landmark for British Muslims

Spence’s debut is being celebrated as a watershed moment for British Muslims, who remain under-represented in professional football despite comprising around 6% of the UK population.

Spence began his professional career at Middlesbrough, breaking into senior football as a teenager. In 2022, he secured a move to Tottenham Hotspur, though his early years in North London were challenging, marked by three loan spells away from the club.

Spence fought his way back into the Spurs squad and played a key role in their Europa League final victory last season, cementing his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable right-backs.

(with Reuters inputs)

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

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