My World Cup: Eric Dier
During the build up to the World Cup, we put a number of players - past and present - in the hotseat to talk about their memories of the 'greatest show on turf'. First up, Eric Dier...
During the build up to the World Cup, we put a number of players - past and present - in the hotseat to talk about their memories of the 'greatest show on turf'.
Now capped 48 times by England after coming off the bench in the Three Lions' 6-2 win against Iran on Monday, Eric Dier carved his name in England folklore by converting the decisive penalty in a Round of 16 shoot-out victory against Colombia in Russia in 2018.
A mainstay at Spurs, barring injury, since his arrival in 2014, Eric is now up to 341 appearances for us in all competitions and has been a pivotal figure since Antonio Conte's appointment in November, 2021, playing in the key central role of our back three...
What is your first memory of a World Cup?
Eric: "It was the 2002 World Cup in Japan and Korea, the tournament where Ronaldinho scored that goal against England, the one that looked like a cross. That is my first memory of a World Cup."
What is the best game you've seen at a World Cup?
Eric: "Probably Spain against Holland, the final in South Africa in 2010, when Andres Iniesta scored the winner in extra time. Spain won 1-0."
If you could have been at any World Cup game...
Eric: "The final in 1966 would have been fascinating, watching Maradona in his prime would also have been incredible, but I think you'd have to say England, 1966."
Favourite kit from any World Cup?
Eric: "I love the one Gazza wore, England's kit in the 1990 World Cup, the shirt with the collars. That's an iconic England kit. Portugal had a nice one with a circle around the number in 2006, Luis Figo's era. I'd say those two."
Best goal you've ever seen at a World Cup?
Eric: "I remember James Rodriguez scored an amazing goal for Colombia against Uruguay in the last 16 of the 2014 World Cup (control on chest, spin and volley, named Goal of the Tournament) - that's the first goal that comes to mind."
Your best personal memory of playing at a World Cup?
Eric: "It has to be scoring the decisive penalty in the shoot-out against Colombia in the last 16 game at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. That was an incredible moment."
