Overview

• Thomas Tuchel named the Tottenham full‑back in the squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra on Saturday at Villa Park and away to Serbia on Tuesday.
• If he makes his debut, Spence is thought to be the first practising Muslim to appear for the England men’s senior side.
• Spence said his faith sustained him through setbacks and described the opportunity as amazing, adding that he wants his journey to encourage others.
• The 25-year-old rebuilt his career after loans and public critiques from Antonio Conte and Neil Warnock, breaking through at Spurs last season and featuring in their Europa League triumph.
• Ruben Loftus-Cheek was added to the squad after Adam Wharton’s injury, putting the AC Milan midfielder in line for his first England involvement since 2018.