Eric Dier
Eric Dier made his first start for England against France during the international friendly Reuters

Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp says Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino needs to be credited for Eric Dier's rise in form since the start of the 2015/16 season. His impressive form at White Hart Lane saw him being selected for the England squad by Roy Hodgson and featured during their international friendlies against Spain and France.

The Three Lions sealed a 2-0 victory over France at Wembley on 17 November and Dier made his first start for the national side. Tottenham's new star Dele Alli opened the scoring before Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney doubled the lead.

Alli was named man of the match for his brilliant display, while Dier also put up a brilliant display against France. Redknapp went on to admit Hodgson should credit the former Southampton manager for the midfielder's development since joining the north London club from Sporting in 2014. He also backed him to make it to the England squad for next summer's European championship.

"Eric Dier is the biggest pleasant surprise for Hodgson and he owes Mauricio Pochettino for that. At Spurs, Dier's been transformed from a versatile defender into a powerful defensive midfielder," Jamie told the Daily Mail.

"For me, there's no doubt he will go to Euro 2016. Jack Wilshere now has competition for that place in front of the back four and I think Dier has a role to play, particularly against the big teams.

"His first thought is always: 'Where do I need to be when we don't have the ball?' It gives solidity and a great platform for England to hit on the counter."

Meanwhile, Jamie's father Harry Redknapp also heaped praise on Alli for his performance in the game against France. The teenager was signed from MK Dons in February and was loaned back to his former club. Harry believes the 21-year-old has the potential to become a great player for both his club and country.

"For a midfield player, he has got great size. He can play, he can tackle, he can head it. It looks like he has a great head on his shoulders, a great attitude. I think he is going to be a real big player in the Premier League and for England for years to come," Harry told talkSPORT.

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