Dier backs called-up Boro star

“We need to be aggressive with the ball, move it quickly, and hopefully create a lot of chances and make it exciting for the fans.”

Chris Smalling was forced out of the England squad through injury yesterday, leading Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson to receive his first call-up.

Gibson tweeted: “Unbelievable honour to be called up to the England squad. Very proud moment for me and my family.”

Southgate will also be without the banned Gary Cahill and injured Phil Jones, giving him a headache in central defence.

Gibson is already well known by many in the England squad. “He’s a very good player getting a lot of praise for how he’s playing this season,” Dier added.

“I’m not the only one who knows Ben quite well, there’s quite a few - Prowsey (James WardProwse),NathanRedmond, Raheem (Sterling), Stonesy (John Stones), Dele (Alli).

“A lot of people have played with him in younger age groups so it’ll be quite easy for him. I’m sure he’ll be just fine.”

Dier was also asked whether England are a side who should be aiming to peak for the 2018 World Cup, or for a later tournament. He said: “We might be quite young, but I don’t think we can play the age card forever. I’m 23 now. There’s a few players around that age but we’ve all played a lot of games. Age isn’t everything.”