Djed Spence becomes the first Muslim to play for England

Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence wrote history on Tuesday when he came from the bank in Belgrade to become the first Muslim to earn a senior cap for England.

Spence, 25, replaced the Reece James of Chelsea in the 69th minute of the 5-0 world cup in the World Cup in England.

«I was surprised because I didn’t know I was the first, so it’s a blessing,» said Spence, born in London.

«It’s good to write history and hopefully to inspire young children around the world that they can make it. They can do what I do,» he added.

The first appearance of Spence is a milestone moment for British Muslims who are under -represented in professional football in the country, despite the fact that they are made up for 6% of the population.

«It’s a moment of celebration for British Muslims,» ​​said Ebadur Rahman, founder of Nujum Sports, an organization that supports more than 400 Muslim athletes through faith advice and professional counseling, before the game.

«Djed has a great responsibility on his shoulders – Not only does he play for England, he plays for Muslims around the world because he is now a role model that breaks through a barrier,» Rahman added.

Spence started his professional career at Middlesbrough before he came to Tottenham in 2022.

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After a tough start with the London club and being lent three times, he became an important part of the team and played last season in the Euroopa League Final Victory.

His increase to Senior England International is seen as a breakthrough moment for British Muslims.

«We just didn’t let the Muslim players get through» BBC.

«Muslims have not had enough opportunities or enough role models for young, prospective players to follow. It is not particularly good that it will be taken until 2025 before a Muslim plays for England,» Lunat added.

Spence said that earning his first English cap had been an emotional moment.

«In which religion you believe, just believe in God,» said Spence.

«Days like today are especially because of God, for me. I was a bit emotional because the journey has not been easy. But I am now officially a player in England and I am in the clouds,» he added.

Published on September 10, 2025