Djed Spences call to Thomas Tuchels England squad for the qualification in September was a career highlight in itself-but it was also very important far beyond the field.
Through his place in the squad, the Tottenham Hotspur defender has the first openly practicing Muslim footballer who received a high-ranking use of England men. If he can be seen in one of the upcoming games against Andorra or Serbia, Spence is expected to be the first Muslim man to write history for the three lions.
Speak to BBC Sport The 25-year-old admitted that the moment was difficult to put into words.
“It’s a blessing – it’s just amazing. I don’t really have the words,” he said. “I pray a lot, I thanks God. In the toughest moments of my life, the darkest moments, I always believed that God was always by my side. It is a big deal for me, my faith.”
Spences call ends a remarkable turn on the field for the former right-back in Middlesbrough, who was borrowed three times from Spurs-in Rennes, Leeds and Genoa, before he broke into the first team last season and played a key role in her triumph of the Europa League.
Now Spence says that he wants to use his story as an inspiration for others while concentrating on simply enjoying his football.
“I don’t really feel the pressure for certain things. I only play football with a smile on my face, be happy and the rest will take care of yourself,” he said. “If I can, you can do it. Not just Muslim children, every child of a belief. Set your mind on something and you can do it.”