Djed Spence’s story is one of resilience, faith, and quiet determination. The Tottenham Hotspur defender, once sidelined and loaned out repeatedly, now stands on the brink of history.
If selected, he could become the first Muslim player to represent the senior England men’s team, a milestone he hopes will inspire children from every background.
For the 25-year-old, this international call-up is more than just recognition of form – it is a turning point in a career once overshadowed by doubt.
Just last year, the defender’s future looked uncertain. Having been sent out on loan to Rennes, Leeds, and Genoa, Spence struggled to cement his place in Tottenham’s plans. Questions were raised about his long-term potential, but instead of fading away, he found the strength to rebuild his career.
From Spurs outcast to national recognition
Before December 2024, Spence had featured for just 64 minutes in the Premier League. Then came a remarkable transformation. From that point, he completed 90 minutes in 19 of Tottenham’s final 22 league games. His efforts were crucial as Spurs lifted their first major trophy in 17 years, defeating Manchester United in the final of the 2024/25 UEFA Europa League.
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Such progress did not come easily. Spence had been omitted from Spurs’ Europa League group-stage squad and only earned his way back for the knockout rounds. Yet, he seized the opportunity. The defender played every minute of the last-16 win over AZ Alkmaar and later featured in the final.
Although overlooked by Thomas Tuchel in March – with Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly preferred despite weaker defensive statistics – Spence never allowed disappointment to derail him. Instead, he kept delivering consistently. He finished the campaign as one of Tottenham’s most reliable performers.
Reflecting on his breakthrough, Spence explained: “It’s a blessing – it’s just amazing. I don’t have the words really. In the darkest moments, I’ve always believed that God has been by my side. My faith is a big thing for me.”
Faith, inspiration, and a defining moment
Spence insists he does not feel added pressure because of his religion. Rather, he views this moment as an opportunity to inspire.
“I just play football with a smile on my face and be happy,” he said. “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 achieve it.”
His rise has long been anticipated by those who worked closely with him. Lee Carsley, who handed him his England Under-21 debut in 2022, described him earlier this year as “such a good player—athletic, exciting, humble, and with no ceiling on his potential.” Carsley had even hoped to take him to the 2023 Under-21 European Championship, but injury ruled him out.
Now, after starting every game of the current Premier League season, Spence has finally earned his maiden senior England call-up. For him, the opportunity is both a professional milestone and a cultural breakthrough.
Ultimately, Spence’s journey from overlooked loanee to national team hopeful is proof that resilience pays off. His story is not merely about football but about breaking barriers, inspiring the next generation, and showing that even in the toughest circumstances, belief can light the way.
Tags: Djed Spence, Tottenham, Spurs, #COYS, #THFC, first England call-up, Thomas Tuchel, Lee Carsley, Europa League, Manchester United, #UEL.
