Tottenham Hotspur’s Eric Dier impressed in central midfield for England once again.
England’s Eric Dier heads at goal
Tottenham Hotspur ace Eric Dier has not had many opportunities to play in central midfield this season, after the arrival of Victor Wanyama.
This had led to a few dodgy performances at centre-back from the 23-year-old. So given the opportunity to re-establish himself in the role for England he has thrived.
The Three Lions were always favoured to win comfortably against Lithuania, but in the past this was the type of game England have sometimes laboured through.
Dier’s assured performance helped England to a 2-0 win, helping lay the foundations for his teammates to go on and attack.
England’s Jermain Defoe celebrates scoring with Ryan Bertrand and Eric Dier
According to data from Whoscored, Dier touched the ball more times than any other player on the pitch, 118 touches in total.
In doing so he was remarkably accurate in possession, completing 97 per cent of his passes, completing 103 in all, more than any other player.
Dier created two scoring chances, managed one effort at goal, and won five aerial duels.
It was somewhat of an exhibition game by the end, but it was the perfect way for Dier to show what he is really capable of.
His Tottenham boss Maurico Pochettino should take note, because this was just further compelling evidence that Dier needs to be used in the position he excelled last season, rather than shunted to the back.
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