Tottenham enjoyed a 4-0 win over FK Crvena zvezda on Wednesday and Eric Dier was one of many players praised by supporters for an impressive performance. The 25-year-old started alongside Davinson Sanchez at centre-back and may have given Mauricio Pochettino food for thought ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Sheffield United.
With Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen being inconsistent this season, Dier could be the ideal solution to Tottenham’s defensive woes. The England international has spent the campaign on the bench, but he may be utilised in a makeshift role after Wednesday’s showing.
The Dier/Sanchez combo works for me; Eric’s marshalling of the back line was excellent; his heading ability will aid a high line and high press; Poch needs to play same back four re continuity and understanding. #COYS #THFC
— Jim Everitt (@jim_everitt) November 7, 2019
Much brighter and positive display by #THFC tonight. Le Celso shone. Dier The Beast was back. Still much work to do & we’ll see on Saturday who retains their place. Credit where crediti is due though. I actually enjoyed our overall performance tonight. #ChampionsLeague
— Lee Ford (@lee4ord) November 7, 2019
I thought Eric Dier quietly was outstanding. His physicality and toughness adds a lot to this team. I would like to see more of him #thfc
— Hotspur Banter (@Hotspur_Banter) November 7, 2019
Gazzaniga is our best goalkeeper and Eric Dier is our best CB at the moment #THFC #COYS
— Sim (@SimbaFromMars) November 7, 2019
Eric Dier really put in a class performance last night I wouldn't mind him getting a start again this weekend. We've needed someone that has a bullish mentality for a while #COYS #THFC pic.twitter.com/CNESCmozon
— Ishaq (@IshaqThfc) November 7, 2019
https://twitter.com/ChrisHfootball/status/1192343941456318465?s=20
I’d start Dier CB again at the weekend after tonight’s performance. No reason he can’t make one of this starting spots his own. #THFC #COYS
— Stephen Clibbon (@sclibbon) November 6, 2019
Against Crvena zvezda, Dier played for 90 minutes, made 98 touches, made two aerial duels, completed 88.5% of his 87 passes, made one tackle, drawn two fouls, made one successful dribble and made three clearances. He helped Tottenham keep their first clean sheet since their 5-0 win over Crvena on October 22.
Alderweireld & Vertonghen look set to leave Tottenham at the end of their contracts in 2020 and will need replacing. If Dier can’t get a game in midfield due to competition from Tanguy Ndombele, Giovani Lo Celso, Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks, a centre-back role could suit all parties.