Eric Dier delighted by Harry Maguire's return for Belgium test
Eric Dier says he is delighted to see Harry Maguire return to England duty after the Manchester United defender was withdrawn from last month’s squad following his criminal trial in Greece.
Maguire faced criticism after struggling in United’s 6-1 defeat by Tottenham last Sunday and there are doubts over his form after a difficult start to the season. The 27-year-old has not played for England since being sent home from the last camp following allegations of a violent altercation with police while on holiday in Mykonos and is likely to be under intense scrutiny when he lines up against Belgium in the Nations League on Sunday evening. Maguire was convicted by a Greek court but denies the original charges and has lodged an appeal.
Dier, who is expected to start alongside Maguire in England’s back three, insists he has no concerns over the United captain’s recent performances. “I can’t really speak on the criticism he might have received,” the Spurs defender said. “I don’t really pay any attention to that.
“He’s a fantastic player to play for Man United and to play for England and to have played for the standards he’s played for both. What he’s done with England as well, the impact he’s had on the team since he arrived, the way he played at the World Cup and since then, he’s shown fantastic consistency.
“He’s a very important player for both teams. It’s a pleasure to be with him after the last camp when he wasn’t here. He’s someone I respect a lot as a player and a person.”
Dier knows about overcoming adversity after illness led to him losing his England place for more than a year. The 26-year-old earned a recall last month and he backed his Spurs teammate, Dele Alli, to force his way back into the reckoning after again being left out by Gareth Southgate.
“I wasn’t in it for a year and a bit,” Dier said. “It’s definitely possible for someone of his quality. He’s still a fantastic player. You don’t lose that overnight. He’s going through a difficult time. There’s always going to be moments like these.
“Everyone has them in their careers and Dele’s got a fantastic personality. I’m sure he’s going to get down to work and try and get back to where he was a year ago or so. It’s really in his hands and I’m looking forward to seeing his reaction over the next couple of months. I’m sure he’s going to be highly motivated.”