Steve Nicol has claimed that Eric Dier ‘isn’t the answer’ for Tottenham at the back, as he suggested that he should be replaced, as he told ESPN.
The Anfield legend added that he felt Tottenham’s backline is their ‘weakness’, as he put forward Dier’s name for criticism.
It could be argued that last season was Dier’s best in English football and in a Spurs shirt, as he was the leader without the armband at the back and one of the club’s best players.
The 28-year-old helped Antonio Conte secure Champions League football, and now heading into the new season, he is one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Despite that, Nicol clearly isn’t a fan of the Englishman, as he discussed Tottenham’s squad and the healthy competition they have, especially in the forward areas.
“I think their weakness is at the back,” said Nicol. “I don’t think Eric Dier is the answer at the back. I never have done.
“But, as far as the rest of the side, the middle of the park and up front, they have got better. Again, they have competition for places. And good competition, not just numbers.”
WILL DIER RETURN TO THE ENGLAND SQUAD?
Despite Dier’s change in form from last season, he still hasn’t earned an England recall, with Gareth Southgate opting for the likes of Marc Guehi, Fikayo Tomori, John Stones, Harry Maguire and Conor Coady.
With the 2022 World Cup around the corner, Dier still has a chance to return to the England set-up, but he clearly needs to start the season well.
If he does that, added with the fact that he is playing Champions League football, then surely he needs to be picked?
At the end of the day, it’s not like Southgate is blessed with centre-backs that are thriving and playing well, for both club and country.
If Maguire can constantly get picked for quite abject performances all year round, then surely Dier will deserve that call if his form continues.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
