In Focus: Dier straits for Spurs as defensive issues persist

Eric Dier’s time at Tottenham has not been glittered with success and the North Londoners are on the verge of recording one of their worst seasons in recent history.

Spurs have conceded 35 goals on the road in the Premier League this term and head to Aston Villa on Saturday needing to win to keep their hopes of qualifying for Europe alive.

Dier was dropped from the starting XI for the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace last weekend and watched from the bench as his side kept their first clean sheet since early March.

Ahead of the game at Villa Park, we turn the spotlight on the England defender.

Out of his depth

Dier originally joined Tottenham in 2014 as a midfielder and scored a memorable goal at West Ham on his debut before transitioning to centre-back under Mauricio Pochettino.

The 49-cap international had to fill the shoes of Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen when they departed but the club’s regression since 2019 has led to four different permanent managers trying and failing to take the Lilywhites to the next level.

Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte both pride their football on being defensively sound but errors at the back became a common theme at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

This term, Dier has only made 30 tackles, significantly fewer than team-mate Cristian Romero’s 66 and the No15 is often slow to close players down, meaning opposition can try their luck from range.

Uncertain future

Reports have linked the Tottenham veteran with a new deal but former Villa striker Tony Cascarino has suggested it is time for Spurs to cut ties.

Cascarino, 60, said: “Dier losing his starting spot was long overdue. He has played poorly since the World Cup.

“New head coaches, even interim ones, need to make a statement when taking over a struggling team, so dropping Dier was a natural decision for Ryan Mason.

“He has been at Spurs since 2014 and I wonder whether this summer’s head coach appointment will determine his future in North London.”

Scapegoat

Dier has been relied on by every coach since his arrival from Sporting which calls into question why he garners so little affection from Spurs supporters.

No other Tottenham player has completed more clearances this term (109) and he also ranks first among his team-mates for headed clearances and aerial duels won.

Dier has also been involved in 33 of Spurs’ 35 top-flight matches this term and has helped steer the club to victories and clean sheets against Brighton, Manchester City and Chelsea.

So while he may no longer be a fan favourite in North London, there is reason to believe that he will continue to be a core part of the squad as the club continues to rebuild following Conte’s sacking.

Southgate’s approval

It is easy to forget that Dier had been a regular starter for England, representing the Three Lions at two World Cups.

Having spent time out of the squad, he was recalled in 2022 and started two Nations League fixtures.

Gareth Southgate gave a glowing review of the defender, saying: “We know what a good character he is. He fits in with the culture and has great international experience and leadership qualities.”

Dier could return to the starting XI against Villa but he will have to put in a perfect performance if he is to keep his place.

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