Tottenham ace Eric Dier has been compared to Liverpool title-winner James Milner - and Kevin Phillips believes the England international could prove the key to unlocking Tanguy Ndombele's talent.
Related articles Tottenham willing to pay £14.5m to secure summer transfer Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho tipped to raid Premier League rivals READ MORE Tottenham 'willing' to submit £14.5m transfer bid for Real Madrid star Dier has featured regularly at centre-back under Jose Mourinho despite establishing himself in the Spurs set-up as a defensive midfielder.
The 26-year-old's ability to switch between the two positions is a useful weapon for Mourinho, just like the versatile Milner has been a valuable asset for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp over the years.
Former Premier League striker Phillips said: “It is always good to have a utility player in your squad.
“He is like Milner at Liverpool as he can play all sorts of positions.
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Tottenham ace Eric Dier has been compared to James Milner (Image: GETTY) READ MORE Tottenham plan £45.1m transfer bid for Man Utd target “Mourinho sees him as a centre-half so that could be his solution for next season.”
Dier, who has missed the last four matches due to a ban dished out for confronting a fan after March's FA Cup defeat to Norwich City, is likely to return at centre-back.
The gap in midfield could allow Ndombele a chance to prove himself after a miserable campaign following his £55million move last summer.
Phillips told Football Insider : “If he comes out of the midfield area it may free up a slot for Ndombele who might perform next season.
“It is always good to see a long-term servant of the club handed a new deal.”
Trending Dier will be hoping he can emulate Milner's career on the pitch. The 34-year-old has three Premier League titles, one Champions League and one FA Cup to his name.
He is regularly praised by Klopp for his work rate, attitude and performances.
Milner had fans in meltdown when he branded Manchester United "f*
