Eric reflects on Burnley stalemate

Eric Dier was pleased to end a two-month wait for a clean sheet, but rueful of our inability to get off the mark at Burnley on Sunday.

With Jan Vertonghen unwell, the youngster was partnered by Vlad Chiriches at centre-half for the first period of our goalless draw at Turf Moor – Ben Davies later teaming up with Eric after Vlad moved to right-back to cover for the injured Kyle Walker.

But the 21-year-old’s satisfaction at shutting out the hosts was tarnished by a sense of disappointment that we couldn’t find a way through Burnley’s defence to win the game.

“It was tough,” confirmed the defender after our first clean sheet since the 3-0 win at West Bromwich Albion on the last day of January.

“We knew Burnley would make it hard but we’re disappointed not to get three points. That would have put us in a great position so it’s disappointing, but we’re pleased to keep a clean sheet as we’ve not had one for a while.

“We made some changes at the back but in our squad, whoever comes in, you know you are in safe hands.

“Vlad came in at centre-back and did well, Ben played well – it’s not even his position but he performed brilliantly.

“We’ve got to keep going now up until the end of the season. It’s the final push, we’ve nothing to lose and we have to give it everything in every game.”