New Bayern boss calls Eric Dier “one of the best players” in Euro 2016

Eric Dier has had a very European Championships. On an England side that ultimately disappointed in Europe’s biggest international football competition, Dier’s solid performances in defensive midfield for Roy Hodgson’s Three Lions side were one of the highlights. Along the way, he’s picked up some admirers, including new Bayern Munich manager Carlo Ancelotti.

In a football column in the Telegraph, the former Chelsea manager sympathized with heartbroken England supporters and pointed out the performances of Dier and Dele Alli as highlights of England’s Euro campaign.

“Look, I know this is difficult for the English football nation. As an Italian you will wonder if I can empathise with what those of you who support the Three Lions are going through. But really, it is not as bad as you think. Let me tell you one thing: this England team has a lot of potential.

“I like these young players that Roy Hodgson picked. I think Eric Dier has been one of the best players in the tournament. Dele Alli will be playing Champions League football next season, and he will be one of the best young players in the competition.”

Say what you want about Carlo Ancelotti, but he’s a very good manager with an excellent eye for talent. And while the cynic will point to these comments and the recent rumors that Bayern Munich are interested in poaching Eric Dier (hmm, maybe there’s a connection there), based on the overall tenor of the column I think this is just a very good manager being complimentary about a young team of English talent.

Besides, while we know how good Eric Dier and Dele Alli are, sometimes it’s nice to have that validated by others.