Professional image of Djed Spence taken during Tottenham Hotspur's 2024-25 Premier League campaign, highlighting the player ahead of his England international call-up. Photo credit: Getty Images via ESPN.
Credit: Getty Images via ESPN
Tottenham defender Djed Spence has been called up to England’s senior squad for World Cup qualifiers, set to become the Three Lions’ first openly Muslim international player in a historic milestone for English football.
Djed Spence Honoured to Make History as England’s First Openly Muslim Player in World Cup Qualifiers
Djed Spence’s groundbreaking call-up to England’s senior squad represents a watershed moment for diversity in English football, as the Tottenham defender prepares to make history as the first openly Muslim player to represent the Three Lions at senior level. The 25-year-old right-back received his maiden international call-up on August 29, 2025, ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.
The Football Association has officially acknowledged the landmark nature of Spence’s selection, framing it as a significant milestone for representation in English sport. Speaking to ESPN about the historic call-up, Spence expressed his pride and humility: “It’s a blessing, it’s amazing. I try to just play football with a smile on my face.” His selection comes after establishing himself in Tottenham’s first team under manager Ange Postecoglou following a challenging period in his career.
Spence’s journey to international recognition has been marked by resilience and determination. The Middlesbrough youth product endured loan spells across Europe, including stints at Rennes, Leeds United, and Genoa, before finally breaking through at Tottenham in 2022. His path to England recognition was further complicated by criticism from prominent managers earlier in his career, making his current success all the more remarkable.
The timing of Spence’s call-up, just days before England’s World Cup qualifiers on September 7 against Andorra and September 10 against Serbia, adds extra significance to his potential debut. Both Tottenham and the England FA have publicly confirmed the call-up and acknowledged its historic importance for Muslim representation in English football. Media reports and football analysts have universally praised the selection as a positive step forward for diversity and inclusion in the sport.
While Spence’s inclusion in the squad is confirmed, it remains unclear whether he will make his senior debut in the upcoming qualifiers or in what capacity he might feature. His actual international debut is anticipated but not yet guaranteed, pending team selection decisions. The breakthrough represents not only personal vindication for Spence but also a symbolic moment for English football’s ongoing commitment to diversity and representation at the highest level.
