Spence never lost faith on long journey and is set to be England's first Muslim

DJED SPENCE is set to create his own piece of history by becoming the first Muslim to play for England.

- By John Cross

The Tottenham defender, 25, has revealed his pride in being a trailblazer and also how his faith helped him overcome the hardest times in his career.

The FA will also recognise it as a point in time for the first openly Muslim player to represent the senior team, ahead of Saturday’s World Cup qualifier with Andorra at Villa Park.

Spence said: “It’s a blessing, it’s amazing. I was surprised really, first ever.

“I don’t have the words. 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.

“It’s a big deal to play for England. I don’t really feel the pressure for certain things.

“I play football with a smile on my face, be happy, and the rest will take care of itself.”