Djed wants to be inspiration for those ready to follow him

Tottenham full-back Djed Spence hopes to inspire future generations if he becomes the first Muslim player to represent the Three Lions. He got his first call up to the England senior squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.

This could be a major turning point for the 25-year-old former Middlesbrough player, who was sent on loan three times by Spurs until now - to Rennes, Leeds and Genoa. However, in the previous season, he managed to establish himself as a first choice among Spurs.

As the BBC reports, it is understood that Spence could become the first Muslim man to play for the England team.

"It's a blessing - it's just amazing. I don't have the words really," said Spence.

"I pray a lot, I give gratitude to God. In the toughest moments of my life, the darkest moments, I've always believed that God has always been by my side. It's a big thing for me, my faith."

Thomas Tuchel's men will face Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday before travelling to Belgrade on Tuesday to face Serbia.

Spence says he does not feel any additional weight on his shoulders because of his religion, but hopes his story can lift others.

"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 yourself," he added.

"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."