Tottenham star Djed Spence aiming to inspire as Muslim playing for England | OneFootball

Spurs defender reiterates the importance of his faith after maiden call-up by Thomas Tuchel ahead of Andorra and Serbia World Cup qualifiers

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Tottenham defender Djed Spence is hoping to inspire others as a Muslim representing England.

The full-back will hope to make his debut on Saturday, when England host Andorra in a World Cup qualifier, or three days later when they travel to Serbia.

Spence playing would represent a historic moment as it is thought that he would become the first Muslim player to represent the England men’s senior team.

Faith is a huge part of the 25-year-old’s life and earlier this year former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou praised Spence’s discipline for playing while also fasting for Ramadan.

Spence hopes that his own journey and story will inspire others to believe that they can follow in his footsteps.

“It’s a blessing, it’s amazing,” he said. “I did see something like that [that I would be the first Muslim player to represent the England men’s senior team].

“I was surprised, really, first ever. It’s just amazing. I don’t have the words really.

“It’s definitely a big deal to play for England, 100 per cent. 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.

“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 itself.

“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, man.”

Spence says his Muslim faith has played a key role in his career, especially during difficult times.

The full-back has established himself as a regular at Spurs this season under new boss Thomas Frank, but before that he was out of favour under other managers and had three different loan spells away from the club.

“I pray a lot, I give gratitude to God,” said Spence. “In the toughest moments of my life, the darkest moments, I’ve always believed that God has always been by my side.

“When I’m winning, when I’m in a good moment, I promote God as well because he’s always been by my side. It’s a big thing for me, my faith.”

Spence has set his sights on making the England squad for next year’s World Cup.

“It would be a blessing, an honour to play in a World Cup,” he said.

“It’s definitely one of my goals. It’s a long, long season ahead. I just have to take it game by game and stay focused and keep impressing.”