Mauricio Pochettino comments suggest he’s seen the light with Eric Dier

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Mauricio Pochettino made a big call at the weekend, deciding to hand Juan Foyth a place in the Tottenham starting XI for the North London derby. The Argentine’s place in the backline meant Toby Alderweireld was left on the sidelines.

It appeared to be a mistake, with Foyth struggling on such a big stage.

As reported by Football.London, Pochettino was asked whether Alderweireld will be brought straight back in for the Southampton game this evening. After initially suggesting ‘We’ll see’ he was pressed further, being told that the Belgian is the only available other centre-back, with Jan Vertonghen suspended, to which he responded:

“There are different options. Dier can play there. It’s about trying to be right and in the end win the game. That’s the most important but of course we come from a competitive week and we are going to face another competitive week.”

So it appears that the England international is still considered an option at centre-back. Dier has not impressed Tottenham fans recently.

His performance v Arsenal, despite a goal, was also questionable and many feel he is not of the level needed in the centre of Tottenham’s midfield.

So perhaps this is the reprieve he needs?

Whilst some Tottenham fans will just want their trusted Belgian brought back into the fold, it appears Dier remains an option for Pochettino at the back. He has not started a game in that role since February, but with his midfield suitability being called into question, it might be his long-term position.

Tottenham fans fed up of his midfield limitations should be happy with that for now.