Nick Pope has told TalkSPORT that he is “delighted” to see Tottenham defender Eric Dier back in the England fold after last featuring in a 4-0 win over Iceland in November 2020. The Newcastle man thinks Dier is a “top, top player”.
Dier, 28, ends his an absence of almost two years after a wonderful spell of form under Antonio Conte at Tottenham. The Italian gaffer has converted him into the middle rock of a back three alongside Cristian Romero and Ben Davies.
The 45-time England international has grown under the guidance of the Italian. Giving Tottenham a leader at the back. While the plaudits often go to Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, Dier has been one of the best of Conte’s Spurs era.
Rightly so, he is brought back into the England side – in what is the last squad ahead of the winter World Cup. Asked about a reunion with Dier in the England team, Pope declared himself “delighted” to be back alongside Dier.
“It’s great for Eric. I was with him a few years ago and always knew he was a top, top player. Delighted to see him picked. With the form he has shown, he deserves it. It’s a department we’re strong in, we’ve got real strength in depth.”
Pope delighted to see Tottenham defender Dier back in England fold
Dier’s re-emergence into the England side could not have been timed better. Of the centre-backs picked, one would argue that Dier is the one that is showing the best form. Harry Maguire is struggling for game time at Old Trafford.
John Stones is playing right-back for Manchester City. Conor Coady has made a solid, if not understated start to life at Everton. Similar can be said for Marc Guehi at Crystal Palace. Fikayo Tomori continues to grow at AC Milan.
But in terms of form, Dier is the man at the moment. It would be a surprise not to see Dier pick up his 46th England cap when the Three Lions travel to the San Siro on Friday to take on Italy.
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