'A great position for him' - Jose on Dier

Jose Mourinho has been impressed with Eric Dier’s performances in central defence.

The 26-year-old has started centre-back in our last six games in all competitions - four before football’s enforced three-month break due to the coronavirus, two since returning to action - and produced an eye-catching, commanding display in helping us keep a clean sheet in our 2-0 win against West Ham on Tuesday evening.

“I like to praise individuals, but I prefer to praise the collective,” said Jose after that vital win against West Ham. “The team defensively was very strong.

“Again, two matches, one goal conceded on a penalty and people like Ben (Davies), Dier, (Davinson) Sanchez, Serge (Aurier), they were really strong.

“Eric is playing really well and adapting very well to a position that he thinks, and personally I also think, is a great position for him.”

Jose is now preparing the players for a crucial spell of four games in 10 days in the Premier League.

We’re back in action with the first away match of our return to action at Sheffield United on Thursday (2 July, 6pm), followed by Everton at home (6 July, 8pm), a trip to Bournemouth (9 July, 6pm) and the north London derby at home against Arsenal - the Gunners' first visit to our new stadium - on 12 July (4.30pm).

“Every game is a big game,” added Jose. “Three points, always three points. That’s where it is. Seven matches to go and every point is important, so the best way is to look at it one match at a time and after Crystal Palace (our final game), let’s see where we are.”