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Spence Becomes First Muslim to Play for England

Djed Spence's debut marks a milestone for British Muslims, highlighting ongoing underrepresentation as only about 250 Muslim players are in England's four professional leagues.

  • Djed Spence, a 25-year-old Tottenham defender, made history on Tuesday by becoming the first Muslim to earn a senior England cap during their 5-0 World Cup qualifying win in Belgrade.
  • Spence's debut followed a call-up earlier that month by coach Thomas Tuchel, reflecting years of perseverance despite setbacks at club level and broader under-representation of British Muslims in professional football.
  • He entered the game in the 69th minute, replacing Chelsea's Reece James, and impressed during a 21-minute cameo in a match where England dominated Serbia at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.
  • Spence called the day one of the most important and emotional of his life, acknowledging the challenges he had overcome and highlighting his faith in God. Meanwhile, advocates hailed his debut as a groundbreaking moment, marking him as an influential role model for British Muslims.
  • This event highlights progress for British Muslims, who comprise 6% of the population but lack sufficient opportunities and role models, and it signals a potential inspirational step for young Muslim athletes nationwide.
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The Global Herald broke the news in on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
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