Eric Dier is looking forward to another World Cup with England, and he has praised the impact Antonio Conte had on his game over the past 12 months.
The 28-year-old had been away from the England squad for some time before his recall in September for the Nations League double-header against Italy and Germany. That was his first call-up since March 2021 and his first appearance for England since November 2020.
Dier managed to work his way back into Gareth Southgate’s plans and sealed his place in the 2022 World Cup squad. Playing for his country is something Dier feared may never happen again and he even admitted he had nearly given up hope of a recall (Evening Standard).
His form at club level since Antonio Conte took over at Tottenham Hotspur has been very impressive, and the defender has now spoken about how integral his manager has been to his resurgence.
Speaking to the press (via TalkSport) ahead of England’s World Cup opener against Iran, Dier expressed his gratitude to Conte for helping him get back into the international setup.
He said: “Last season after Antonio Conte arrived that was some of the best football I’ve played. And it has carried into this season. I’m enjoying every minute of working with him. He’s a special manager.”
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Dier reflected on missing out on Euro 2020, describing that as “one of the worst moments of [his] career.”
He isn’t dwelling on the past though, and sounds like he is keen to make the most of his chance now, adding “I’m grateful to be here now. I’m very proud of myself for how I managed to fight my way back in.”
Spurs Web Opinion
Despite some shaky performances and a few mistakes of late, Eric Dier has been really solid for Spurs over the last 12 months and thoroughly deserves his place in the England squad. I’m really happy to see him back in the team and hopefully he can make the starting lineup, too.
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