Spurs star Eric now the key to our World Cup ‘masterplan’

GARETH SOUTHGATE is planning to road test his World Cup masterplan – and Eric Dier will be the key to its success.

England boss Southgate plans to use Dier as the central figure in his back three during the friendlies with Holland and Italy.

Tottenham’s versatile star (right) is emerging as the main man for England and could

even be given the armband in the absence of the injured Harry Kane.

It is a big opportunity for Dier, who often operates in midfield for Tottenham, but Southgate sees him as having all the credentials to be his defensive kingpin.

Southgate wants to put two traditional centre-backs alongside Dier, with John Stones and Harry Maguire the current favourites.