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Djed Spence is poised to make history as the first Muslim footballer to play for England's senior team. The 25-year-old Tottenham defender has expressed his pride in being a pioneer and how his faith has been instrumental in navigating the toughest periods of his career.
The Football Association will also acknowledge this milestone as the first time an openly Muslim player has represented the senior England squad, ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Andorra at Villa Park. Spence shared: "It's a blessing, it's amazing. I did see something like that. I was surprised, really, first ever. It's just amazing. I don't have the words really.
"I think it shows 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. It's definitely a big deal to play for England, 100 per cent. 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."
Spence's career has been a whirlwind journey, taking him from Middlesbrough to Nottingham Forest, onto Tottenham and then loan spells with Rennes, Leeds and Genoa.
His path hasn't been without its challenges - including harsh criticism from former Spurs boss Antonio Conte and ex-Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock - but his faith has been his guiding light throughout.
Spence declared: "First things first, God is the greatest. I pray a lot, I give gratitude to God. It's a big thing for me, my faith.
"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."
Spence arrived at Tottenham in 2022 and, despite only truly finding his feet last season under Ange Postecoglou, the supporters have consistently rallied behind him.
His passion, intensity and relentless work rate from either flank have endeared him to the faithful, with fans regularly demanding his inclusion even during spells on the sidelines.
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This brings joy to the defender, alongside the unwavering support from his three elder sisters, father Simon and his biggest champion, mother Aisha, who ferried him to countless training sessions during his formative years.
Today Spence is enjoying the fruits of his labour, crediting his mindset and resilience as key factors in his rise.
Spence explained: "I wouldn't say a tough journey, but it's been a long journey. There have been good times and bad times, but I think when you believe in yourself and trust in God, everything will align with itself.
"Without a strong mentality, you won't make it to the top. I definitely think I have got a strong mentality, especially to fight through challenges.
"Sometimes in football when things go bad, they go really bad. I was out on loan, playing, then I stopped playing and then got injured before the under-21s Euros... and they won it. I would have loved that. So I would probably say that was a point in my career where it was really tough.
"It has always been my plan to make it to the senior team. It might not have been in my vision so close ahead. It's a blessing."
Whilst Conte represented the nadir during his time at Tottenham, it was Postecoglou who assisted him in securing the Europa League triumph, which he marked with his customary photograph of himself enjoying a cigar.
Spence is equally enthusiastic about new Spurs boss Thomas Frank.
Spence continued: "I feel I'm getting better day by day. I feel I'm improving and that's down to me staying focused, being a sponge and listening to my coaches and the staff.
"Just that willing to learn. I want to be the best in my position and to do that you've got to keep working hard and keep taking on advice. You've got to do everything to the maximum.
"Ange Postecoglou made me a champion, so I always have gratitude to him for that. And he was a good manager, good guy. I don't really have anything else to say really about it. Gave me my opportunity, which I'm grateful for. I've respect for him.
"Thomas Frank is amazing, man. He's been amazing to me, fills me with confidence, very open and just a down-to-earth manager. I think he's going to be amazing for the club."