Opinion: Eric Dier back in the Spurs XI and back in form – But what next?
Following Jose Mourinho’s sacking, many believed that Eric Dier would be cast aside by the new manager, whoever that may be. However, the Englis centre-back has started both games under Ryan Mason, including the League Cup Final. Not only has Dier started both games under Mason, but has played very well in both. Averaging at […]
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Following Jose Mourinho’s sacking, many believed that Eric Dier would be cast aside by the new manager, whoever that may be. However, the Englis centre-back has started both games under Ryan Mason, including the League Cup Final.
Not only has Dier started both games under Mason, but has played very well in both. Averaging at least an 88% pass accuracy in both matches, Dier seems to fit Ryan Mason’s idea of a ball-playing centre back.
Fans have critiqued Dier this season for consistently being at fault for goals that Spurs concede. However, the two goals Spurs have conceded since Mason’s appointment have come from other players losing their men in the box.
Against Man City, Dier even pointed out Laporte’s run to Sissoko before the French centre back scored the winner.
It feels as though Dier is best with his back against the wall, tasked with blocking, heading clear and keeping the ball out the back of the net.
However, when asked to bring the ball out or run back towards his own goal, he can fall short. This is definitely something he needs to improve on.
Dier also made a crucial block on a shot from Raheem Sterling which would have undoubtedly found the back of the net if the 27-year-old was not there to stop it.
Mason now faces a dilemma on his hands as he must decide who will play centre-back for the final games. Now that the League Cup Final is done with, Joe Rodon will be another option available for selection for the final five matches.
This will give Ryan Mason a choice between Dier, Rodon, Toby Alderweireld and Davinson Sanchez, although the Colombian seems the least likely.
Alderweireld himself has dropped two very impressive performances over the past week and Mason is likely to want the Belgian’s long-range passing ability.
Although Dier has shown glimpses of his diagonal passing over the years, he has never been as consistent as Alderweireld.
In any case, Dier will need to continue to grab the opportunities he is given with both hands if he is to remain in Spurs’ starting XI for the remaining 5 league games and if he wants to impress the new manager, whenever they finally join the club.
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The post Opinion: Eric Dier back in the Spurs XI and back in form – But what next? appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.