Martin Keown has made the huge claim that Tottenham ace Eric Dier is the best English centre-back ahead of next year’s World Cup.
The 23-year-old is regarded as a key player for Spurs, with his versatility meaning he has been used as both a defender and midfielder frequently.
He is regarded as a central midfielder by trade and broke in the starting XI of the North London club in that role a couple of years ago.
However, last season he filled in as part of a three-man defence for Mauricio Pochettino’s side and excelled.
Dier is back into his more accustomed midfielder role this campaign for club, where he operates as the defensive screen by helping breaking up play.
He captained England twice during the international break during draws against Brazil and Germany, where he was solid in the centre of the park.
However, Keown has made the huge claim that Dier is much better in defence and went one step further by stating he is the best centre-back in English football.
Keown is adamant that the Spurs man should be in Gareth Southgate’s starting XI next summer as the right-sided defender in a back three.
“Dier is such an outstanding player that he can play in midfield,” Keown wrote in the Daily Mail.
“Ultimately, if England had better midfield players he would be in the back line.
“For me, Dier is England’s best central defender. I read this morning that Gareth Southgate intends to play him as a defender at the World Cup.”
If Dier is to be used as a defender for the national side moving forward then he does face some big competition.
Gary Cahill, John Stones, Phil Jones, Harry Maguire and Joe Gomez are some of the main centre-backs that are pushing for a main role for England.
OPINION
Dier is somewhat of a mystery for Spurs and England. but what is clear is that he is a very talented footballer that most people forget is still just 23. Keown is adamant that the powerhouse is most effective in the defence and clearly values him very highly by recognising him as the best English centre-back. Dier has shown during his Spurs performances in defence that he is reliable, but you do lose part of his game offensively when he is stuck back. He is very comfortable in possession and can be a real driving force with his passing at times.