Eric's focus

Eric Dier is refusing to underestimate Sheffield United ahead of our Capital One Cup semi-final first leg this evening.

The League One side have claimed numerous Premier League scalps in cup matches in recent seasons and will naturally be determined to put in a strong performance tonight before next week’s return at Bramall Lane.

Defender Eric is all too aware of that and, having enjoyed a solid outing alongside Jan Vertonghen in our 2-1 victory over Sunderland on Saturday, he’s maintaining a focused approach heading into our latest contest at White Hart Lane.

“It’s a cup semi-final so it doesn’t really matter who you are – anyone can win cup games,” said the 21-year-old. “We’re going to have to be at our best for both games against Sheffield United and hopefully we can get to Wembley at the end of it.

“When I was with Sporting Lisbon we had some interesting cup runs. I remember we lost to Benfica in one of them, but it would be nice to go further this time.

“At the end of the day, it’s a new game and everyone knows what we need to do to get through so hopefully we can do that.”