When Eric Dier first broke into the Tottenham team, it appeared as if England would have a dymanic, tactically flexible and intelligent holding midfielder.
As the years have gone on, Dier’s style has hardened somewhat. At the World Cup, his limitations began to show and he started this season with some ponderous performances.
There was danger of him even slipping out of the England squad, but he was handed the opportunity to shine against Spain on Monday.
Many might have feared that Dier would be found wanting by Spain’s rapid passing style, but he actually set the tone for that famous 3-2 win.

After England had endured a shaky start, Dier pressed Sergio Ramos as a nervous Spain passed it around the back and absolutely clattered him.
It somehow earned him a yellow card, but more importantly, it appeared to galvanise England. It showed they were not scared of their opponents and injected some passion into the team.
Dier has not endured the best of seasons at Spurs, much like his whole team, but he showed he can be the man to reengerise them.
Showing that aggression and passion may just haul an injury-hit squad through a tricky spell; Dier showed he can be a leader for this Spurs side with that one tackle.
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