Ledley King: Eric Dier can be a 'world class centre-back'
Former Tottenham Hotspur favourite Ledley King believes Eric Dier can become a "world class centre-back" should he move from from his new position as a deep-lying midfielder.
King spent his formative years in the Spurs' midfield before being shunted into the back four where he thrived until injuries curtailed his career. The retired 21-time England international thinks Dier would benefit from a similar footballing education.
"I don't want to be disrespectful but I still think he'll be a centre-back and that's nothing to do with his performances in midfield, because he can clearly play there," King told ESPN FC's Dan Kilpatrick.
"If he was to move back to centre-back, he would be even better there, especially given his experience in midfield."
Dier was previously utilised at right-back following his transfer from Sporting CP in 2014, but since Mauricio Pochettino reimagined him as a player who can plug the middle, he has thrived for both the Spurs and England, for whom he has amassed four caps since his international bow last November.
King appreciates the 22-year-old's successes this term, but believes these experiences put him in good stead to become a leading centre-half in the game.
"You see the game a lot more clearly. That's what I was able to do after playing in midfield. Centre-half felt like a doddle and that can be true for Eric as well," King added.
"You play in midfield as a centre-half and find time on the ball in an area that's congested. When you get to the back, it's easier. You have time on the ball and you're more comfortable. You see the game a lot more clearly. The game comes to you.
"That's something he can do, it'll help him. I feel he can be a world-class centre-back after having this experience in midfield. But it's up to him. I always knew I wanted to be a centre-half."
King was keen to highlight the solid performances of Toby Alderweireld at the back too. The Belgian signed from Atletico Madrid in the summer and has formed solid partnerships with compatriots Jan Vertonghen and Kevin Wimmer in defence.
"He's been unbelievable," King continued. "It's not just his defending but his ball playing ability as well. He's made a good few goals this season and he's scored a few as well.
"It's not easy to come to a new club and perform at such a high level in your first season but his performances have been great."
Tottenham is seven points short of league leader Leicester City ahead of Sunday's visit from Manchester United.