"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 been by my side. It's a big thing for me, my faith."
"Djed has big responsibility on his shoulders - not only is he playing for England, he is playing for Muslims all around the world because he is now seen as a role model breaking a barrier."
"Every single young Muslim player I've come into contact with through coaching in this country aspires to play for England. No other nation, not their parents' nation or anything like that, just England. That's it."
Djed Spence became the first Muslim to play for the senior England men's team when he came on as a substitute in a World Cup qualifying match in Serbia. His Muslim faith plays a central role in his life and approach to football, with frequent prayer and gratitude to God cited as sources of support during the toughest moments. The milestone prompted celebration within the British Muslim community and attention from organisations that support Muslim athletes. Advocates describe Spence as a visible role model breaking barriers and emphasise the responsibility and inspirational impact his presence has for young Muslim players in England.
Read at www.bbc.com
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