DIER TAKES FAN STAND
ERIC DIER has broken his silence on the fan abuse that landed him in hot water with the FA.
Speaking for the first time since a four-match ban for the flashpoint in the Totenham stands in March at the end of a home FA Cup defeat to Norwich, he expressed genuine concern about the issue.
Not just with players being targeted on the pitch by foul-mouthed fans but also in wider society – via the online social media world.
Dier, found guilty of ‘threatening’ behaviour after climbing into the stands to confront a supporter who was hurling obscenities towards a family member, said: “On the abuse, it’s a massive problem in society in general because of social media, football stadiums, sports stadiums.
“This is a huge problem that needs to be looked at much more seriously and there needs to be a lot more repercussions. I think it is being addressed but it needs to be addressed even more.
“I have no problem with anyone criticising my footballing ability but when it’s more than that there’s a big problem.” Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho (below) revealed last month the supporter involved had requested a private meeting with Dier to apologise for his behaviour. According to the Portuguese coach, the pair patched up their differences and the reformed individual would be welcome at Spurs again. When asked about those conciliatory talks at the club’s training ground, Dier refused to go into detail. The England international, 26, added: “No, I can’t speak any more about this. There will be a time but it’s not now. I’m not going to risk getting into any more trouble because my views are very strong.”
Dier, though, was considerably more forthcoming regarding his on-going revival as a solid, ball-playing central defender.
So content is he with life under Mourinho, and with the support he received from the club during his disciplinary hearing with the FA, he recently agreed an improved four-year deal.
All proof Dier is convinced the Special One has lost none of his credentials to land silverware. The ex-Sporting player, who arrived at Spurs in 2014, added: “When I signed my new contract, people asked me, ‘Do you really think you can win trophies?’
“My answer is you don’t know if you’re going to win them or not. But the manager is going into every competition trying to win them. That’s all you can ask.
“His history speaks for itself. Everywhere he has gone, he has won.”
Dier, with 40 England caps to his name, is equally pleased at being used in defence rather than as a holding midfielder.
He said: “For about three years, I’ve seen that as the position I wanted to play. It’s the one I grew up in.”