Darren Bent has questioned Gareth Southgate’s decision to select Harry Maguire over Eric Dier in his latest England squad.
Dier has been one of Tottenham’s best performers in recent weeks and has looked assured at the heart of Antonio Conte’s defence since recovering from a thigh problem.
The 28-year-old was once a regular in the Three Lions set up but has not added to his 45 caps since playing a full 90 minutes in a 4-0 UEFA Nations League victory against Iceland in November 2020 (transfermarkt).
Southgate claimed that he has never considered dropping Maguire from his squad, claiming the United captain is one of his best centre backs (Daily Mail).
Bent admitted it was a surprise for Dier to be overlooked for selection given how his form is better than that of some of those who have been called up for duty.
“Do you know what? It is [a surprise],” Bent told talkSPORT.
“His form has been a lot better than some of the people in this squad. Harry Maguire, how he’s in the squad, I don’t know.
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“Gareth Southgate can’t keep picking players because they’ve never let him down. Harry Maguire has no form at the moment.”
SpursWeb Opinion
It is remarkable how Dier was snubbed for selection given his ability to play as a central defender with the ball-playing ability of a midfielder, while Maguire has been average at best for United this season.
What is England’s loss is Tottenham’s gain and will allow Antonio Conte to spend extra time with the defender as part of his plans for the top four race.
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