DIER JUST TOO SLOW

I WAS disappointed with the naivety I saw from England in France.

But one positive about the 3-2 defeat was that Gareth Southgate was trying new things.

So often we get to major tournaments and there’s a feeling it’s the same old players and the same systems.

So the fact a couple of new caps were given out, the fact we tried different people in different areas, I’m all for that.

I have to say, though, that the one position which does worry me is Eric Dier (below) in defensive midfield.

As good as he can be alongside Mousa Dembele and Victor Wanyama at Tottenham,am, he he’ss too ponderous without themhem and I prefer him as a thirdhird centrehalf.

He’s just t not sharp enough ugh over five yards. If youou think of N’Golo ’Golo Kante, Nemanjamanja Matic – all l the fine defensive midfielders – they’ve all nicked the ball from opponents onents before they have had chance to breathe.