Tottenham's Djed Spence said the opportunity to make history as the first male player who publicly identifies as a Muslim to represent England was a "blessing" as he prepares for a potential debut. The 25-year-old defender was one of two new faces included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. It is understood Spence could become the first Muslim man to play for England's senior team.&nbsp;"I've seen that," the versatile full-back said at England's training base. "It's a blessing, it's amazing. I did see something like that.&nbsp;"I was surprised, really, first ever. It's just amazing. I don't have the words really."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-sanctions-lionel-messi-s-argentina-five-other-nations-for-racist-abuse-by-fans-1756918550720">FIFA sanctions Lionel Messi's Argentina, five other nations for racist abuse by fans</a>&nbsp;But the former England Under-21s international said he did not feel under extra pressure, adding: "I just play football with a smile on my face."&nbsp;Spence's faith is a major part of his identity and is something he frequently acknowledges on social media.&nbsp;"First things first, God is the greatest," he said. "I pray a lot. I give gratitude to God.&nbsp;"In the toughest moments of my life, the darkest moments, I've always believed that God has always been by my side.&nbsp;"When I'm winning, when I'm in a good moment, I promote God as well because he's always been by my side. It's a big thing for me, my faith."Spence's rise has been a slow one.&nbsp;After impressing in the Championship for Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest, he moved to Premier League Tottenham in 2022. But he initially struggled to make an impression under former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte, and spent time on loan at Rennes, Leeds and Genoa. The defender only made his full Spurs debut in December, two-and-a-half years after he joined the club in what proved a breakthrough campaign that culminated in Europa League glory.&nbsp;He came on as a substitute in the Bilbao final, having initially been omitted from Ange Postecoglou's group-stage squad earlier in the season.&nbsp;"Without (a strong) mentality, you won't make it to the top," said Spence. "I definitely think I have got a strong mentality, especially to fight through challenges."&nbsp;"I do have a mental note of people who doubted me, for sure, and it does feel good to prove them wrong," he added.&nbsp;Now the full-back hopes to inspire others.&nbsp;"If I can do it, you can do it," he said. "Not just Muslim kids, any child of any faith. Put your mind to something and you can do it."&nbsp;England face Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday before travelling to play Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday.&nbsp;Tuchel's men are top of Group K with three wins from three matches so far.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 25-year-old defender was one of two new faces included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.

Tottenham's Djed Spence said the opportunity to make history as the first male player who publicly identifies as a Muslim to represent England was a "blessing" as he prepares for a potential debut. The 25-year-old defender was one of two new faces included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. It is understood Spence could become the first Muslim man to play for England's senior team. "I've seen that," the versatile full-back said at England's training base. "It's a blessing, it's amazing. I did see something like that. "I was surprised, really, first ever. It's just amazing. I don't have the words really." Also read | FIFA sanctions Lionel Messi's Argentina, five other nations for racist abuse by fans But the former England Under-21s international said he did not feel under extra pressure, adding: "I just play football with a smile on my face." Spence's faith is a major part of his identity and is something he frequently acknowledges on social media. "First things first, God is the greatest," he said. "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. "When I'm winning, when I'm in a good moment, I promote God as well because he's always been by my side. It's a big thing for me, my faith." Spence's rise has been a slow one. After impressing in the Championship for Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest, he moved to Premier League Tottenham in 2022. But he initially struggled to make an impression under former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte, and spent time on loan at Rennes, Leeds and Genoa. The defender only made his full Spurs debut in December, two-and-a-half years after he joined the club in what proved a breakthrough campaign that culminated in Europa League glory. He came on as a substitute in the Bilbao final, having initially been omitted from Ange Postecoglou's group-stage squad earlier in the season. "Without (a strong) mentality, you won't make it to the top," said Spence. "I definitely think I have got a strong mentality, especially to fight through challenges." "I do have a mental note of people who doubted me, for sure, and it does feel good to prove them wrong," he added. Now the full-back hopes to inspire others. "If I can do it, you can do it," he said. "Not just Muslim kids, any child of any faith. Put your mind to something and you can do it." England face Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday before travelling to play Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday. Tuchel's men are top of Group K with three wins from three matches so far. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 25-year-old defender was one of two new faces included in Thomas Tuchel's squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia.

Spurs defender Spence on brink of history as first Muslim England player

The Football Association have identified a "number of candidates" to replace Gareth Southgate as they search for an England manager capable of "winning a major tournament".

Southgate resigned on Tuesday in the aftermath of England's Euro 2024 final defeat against Spain.

The end of Southgate's eight-year reign has forced the FA into a selection search that has seen them linked with a host of candidates.

Among the bookmakers' favourites are Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, former Chelsea bosses Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel, as well as Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou.

However, the FA insist the process is open to anyone who meets the criteria it published on Friday in a job profile detailing the qualities required in the next England manager.

The text of the role profile stated: "Our succession planning process has already identified a number of candidates; in addition to this we are committed to open recruitment processes in the football industry."

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While Southgate earned plaudits for restoring England's tarnished reputation, he failed to end the country's wait for a first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

After successive European Championship final defeats and a 2018 World Cup semi-final loss, finally winning a major prize with a squad packed with world-class talent is clearly the top priority for Southgate's successor.

The FA said they are looking for a manager able to "lead and develop the England senior men's team to win a major tournament and be consistently ranked as one of the top teams in the world".

The right person would also provide "inspiring leadership" to the FA's technical team and develop and maintain strong relationships with clubs who employ English-qualified players.

The successful candidate would need to hold a UEFA Pro Licence, possess "significant experience" of English football and have "a strong track record delivering results in the Premier League and/or leading international competitions".

In a pointed reference to the criticism Southgate endured during his time in a role once dubbed the "impossible job" by then England boss Graham Taylor, the FA highlighted the need for an "exceptional leader", "highly resilient" and "comfortable in a very high-profile role with intense public scrutiny".

Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, the FA welcomed applications from everyone who meets the criteria.

England Women's coach Sarina Wiegman, who led the team to victory at the Women's European Championship in 2022, has been linked with replacing Southgate.

The profile includes an email address for interested applicants, potentially opening the way for the FA to be deluged with offers from fans rather than genuine candidates.

The governing body has set August 2 as the closing date for applications.

England's first match of the new season is a Nations League clash with the Republic of Ireland on September 7.

The Football Association have identified a "number of candidates" to replace Gareth Southgate as they search for an England manager capable of "winning a major tournament".

The Football Association have identified a "number of candidates" to replace Gareth Southgate as they search for an England manager capable of "winning a major tournament". Southgate resigned on Tuesday in the aftermath of England's Euro 2024 final defeat against Spain. The end of Southgate's eight-year reign has forced the FA into a selection search that has seen them linked with a host of candidates. Among the bookmakers' favourites are Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, former Chelsea bosses Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel, as well as Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou. However, the FA insist the process is open to anyone who meets the criteria it published on Friday in a job profile detailing the qualities required in the next England manager. The text of the role profile stated: "Our succession planning process has already identified a number of candidates; in addition to this we are committed to open recruitment processes in the football industry." ALSO READ: Manchester United sign French teen Leny Yoro on a five-year contract ahead of Premier League 2024-25 While Southgate earned plaudits for restoring England's tarnished reputation, he failed to end the country's wait for a first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup. After successive European Championship final defeats and a 2018 World Cup semi-final loss, finally winning a major prize with a squad packed with world-class talent is clearly the top priority for Southgate's successor. The FA said they are looking for a manager able to "lead and develop the England senior men's team to win a major tournament and be consistently ranked as one of the top teams in the world". The right person would also provide "inspiring leadership" to the FA's technical team and develop and maintain strong relationships with clubs who employ English-qualified players. The successful candidate would need to hold a UEFA Pro Licence, possess "significant experience" of English football and have "a strong track record delivering results in the Premier League and/or leading international competitions". In a pointed reference to the criticism Southgate endured during his time in a role once dubbed the "impossible job" by then England boss Graham Taylor, the FA highlighted the need for an "exceptional leader", "highly resilient" and "comfortable in a very high-profile role with intense public scrutiny". Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, the FA welcomed applications from everyone who meets the criteria. England Women's coach Sarina Wiegman, who led the team to victory at the Women's European Championship in 2022, has been linked with replacing Southgate. The profile includes an email address for interested applicants, potentially opening the way for the FA to be deluged with offers from fans rather than genuine candidates. The governing body has set August 2 as the closing date for applications. England's first match of the new season is a Nations League clash with the Republic of Ireland on September 7.

FA ‘identifies candidates’ to replace Gareth Southgate as England men’s team coach

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed England to win Euro 2024 if they follow his club's route to continental glory.

Guardiola finally guided City to their first Champions League crown last season after a number of near misses earlier in his reign.

The Spaniard feels Gareth Southgate can do the same with England following their own painful failures on the brink of silverware.

England were beaten in the European Championship final by Italy on penalties at Wembley in 2021, lost the World Cup semi-final against Croatia in 2018 and were beaten by France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals.

"They are really good. It's not just the talent of the strikers, it's the whole package, the whole group and Gareth knows perfectly what he has to do," Guardiola told reporters on Friday.

"So, I have the feeling, everyone has the feeling, that the England national team, (from) the last events - the World Cup and European Championship - they make steps, they are on the verge, they are really close. They lost a final, got to a semi-final.

"When you arrive at these stages every two years, it's going to happen. It's quite similar to us, we were close, and in the end we lifted it."

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Guardiola believes the English passion for football, which has often weighed heavily on their players at tournaments, will prove a more uplifting factor this time.

"I see the reaction when they play European Cups or World Cups, people go crazy on the streets. They go crazy for the national team," Guardiola said.

"That proves how proud they are and, at the end of the day, as a football player, that is the best, your country is proud of what you are doing for your country, and the way you are playing, reaching the last stages.

"Just believe it. If they believe it, they can do it. Believe it, believe it, they can do it."

City forward Phil Foden could have a key role to play for England after an outstanding season at club level.

The 23-year-old's performances were recognised as he was named the Football Writers' Association men's Player of the Year on Friday.

Guardiola believes Foden, who has progressed through the club's youth ranks to become one of their most important players, could go on to become one of City's greatest ever.

"This club has a long, long history. You can't forget what happened with the players who played at Maine Road, like everyone knows. I think the club has been built with many, many top-quality players," he said.

"But I have the feeling if he continues his career until the end here, and continues that level, he can be one of the best, that's for sure."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed England to win Euro 2024 if they follow his club's route to continental glory. Guardiola finally guided City to their first Champions League crown last season after a number of near misses earlier in his reign.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed England to win Euro 2024 if they follow his club's route to continental glory. Guardiola finally guided City to their first Champions League crown last season after a number of near misses earlier in his reign. The Spaniard feels Gareth Southgate can do the same with England following their own painful failures on the brink of silverware. England were beaten in the European Championship final by Italy on penalties at Wembley in 2021, lost the World Cup semi-final against Croatia in 2018 and were beaten by France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals. "They are really good. It's not just the talent of the strikers, it's the whole package, the whole group and Gareth knows perfectly what he has to do," Guardiola told reporters on Friday. "So, I have the feeling, everyone has the feeling, that the England national team, (from) the last events - the World Cup and European Championship - they make steps, they are on the verge, they are really close. They lost a final, got to a semi-final. "When you arrive at these stages every two years, it's going to happen. It's quite similar to us, we were close, and in the end we lifted it." ALSO READ: Marco Reus to bid farewell to Borussia Dortmund after 2023-24 season; end 12-year stay with club Guardiola believes the English passion for football, which has often weighed heavily on their players at tournaments, will prove a more uplifting factor this time. "I see the reaction when they play European Cups or World Cups, people go crazy on the streets. They go crazy for the national team," Guardiola said. "That proves how proud they are and, at the end of the day, as a football player, that is the best, your country is proud of what you are doing for your country, and the way you are playing, reaching the last stages. "Just believe it. If they believe it, they can do it. Believe it, believe it, they can do it." City forward Phil Foden could have a key role to play for England after an outstanding season at club level. The 23-year-old's performances were recognised as he was named the Football Writers' Association men's Player of the Year on Friday. Guardiola believes Foden, who has progressed through the club's youth ranks to become one of their most important players, could go on to become one of City's greatest ever. "This club has a long, long history. You can't forget what happened with the players who played at Maine Road, like everyone knows. I think the club has been built with many, many top-quality players," he said. "But I have the feeling if he continues his career until the end here, and continues that level, he can be one of the best, that's for sure."

Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola places his bet on England for Euro 2024 glory

A 1-0 loss to Brazil on Saturday did not dampen England coach Gareth Southgate's spirits as he assessed a few newcomers to his team with an eye on who will make his Euro 2024 squad.

An injury-hit Brazil side won the game thanks to their 17-year-old striker Endrick, who scored in the 80th-minute after coming on as a substitute.

It was an even game, the England manager suggested in a press conference, as he made changes to his side with the upcoming European Championship in Germany in mind.

"I'm not down on the performance of the team," the 53-year-old said. "The difference in the end was one moment, really... a couple of mistakes decided the game."

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England were missing some key players at Wembley, including injured captain Harry Kane who will also sit out their next friendly against Belgium on Tuesday.

Generally pleased with the performance of his players, Southgate praised the debuts of Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo and Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon.

Although Ollie Watkins did not have a clear cut chance on goal, Southgate said he was happy with the Aston Villa striker's contribution.

"We needed to know where we might head if we didn't have Harry (Kane) for a big match," he said. "It was a good experiment," Southgate added.

Bayern Munich striker Kane travelled to England last weekend to join up with the national team to be treated for an ankle injury he had suffered in a 5-2 Bundesliga win at Darmstadt.

A 1-0 loss to Brazil on Saturday did not dampen England coach Gareth Southgate's spirits as he assessed a few newcomers to his team with an eye on who will make his Euro 2024 squad.

A 1-0 loss to Brazil on Saturday did not dampen England coach Gareth Southgate's spirits as he assessed a few newcomers to his team with an eye on who will make his Euro 2024 squad. An injury-hit Brazil side won the game thanks to their 17-year-old striker Endrick, who scored in the 80th-minute after coming on as a substitute. It was an even game, the England manager suggested in a press conference, as he made changes to his side with the upcoming European Championship in Germany in mind. "I'm not down on the performance of the team," the 53-year-old said. "The difference in the end was one moment, really... a couple of mistakes decided the game." ALSO READ: George Russell’s terrifying scream for help as his Mercedes flips during horror Australian GP crash England were missing some key players at Wembley, including injured captain Harry Kane who will also sit out their next friendly against Belgium on Tuesday. Generally pleased with the performance of his players, Southgate praised the debuts of Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo and Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon. Although Ollie Watkins did not have a clear cut chance on goal, Southgate said he was happy with the Aston Villa striker's contribution. "We needed to know where we might head if we didn't have Harry (Kane) for a big match," he said. "It was a good experiment," Southgate added. Bayern Munich striker Kane travelled to England last weekend to join up with the national team to be treated for an ankle injury he had suffered in a 5-2 Bundesliga win at Darmstadt.

England coach Southgate pleased with team’s performance despite loss to Brazil