World Cup 2018: Eric Dier jumps to Raheem Sterling's defence as England prepare for Croatia semi-final

Raheem Sterling has been criticised by the public and the media for his performances in Russia

Eric Dier has jumped to the defence of the “incredible” Raheem Sterling, praising England’s number 10 at his press conference this afternoon for his attitude, his commitment and his contribution to the team.

Sterling has been heavily criticised all World Cup, by fans and in the media. He was surprisingly ranked worse on the BBC website than any other England player for his performance against Sweden on Saturday. But there has been strong support for Sterling from within the England camp and Dier was forthright in his comments in a press conference in Repino this afternoon.

Dier praised Sterling not just for his football but for his solidity in the face of heavy criticism, ranging from an outcry over a tattoo of a gun on his right leg, to showing up one day late to training at St George’s Park, to his inconsistent performances in Russia so far.

“I think, first of all, the way Raheem has handled everything throughout this process, from when we met up until now, has been incredible,” Dier said. “I think the way he goes about his job has been fantastic. His attitude is fantastic. His work ethic is fantastic as well.”

Dier was just as positive about Sterling’s effectiveness on the pitch, saying that the quality of work he does “so clear to see” if you watched England’s games again. Because Sterling has to stretch opponents by running in behind, dribble with the ball and combine with team-mates in tight spaces.

“He offers so much to the team,” Dier said. “His willingness to make forward runs. Obviously his quality in possession. He can come short and link the play. He can make runs in behind. Off the ball his work rate is incredible. It’s so clear to see if you were to watch back all of our games until now, the importance he has on the team. I think he’s had a fantastic tournament so far. Hopefully he can continue to have one in the next week.”

Southgate comforts Sterling after Sweden win (AP)

Two years on from Euro 2016 and the shock exit to Iceland, Dier said that England’s success here so far was part of the team trying to make amends for that underperformance.

“After the Iceland game, we knew that things had to change,” Dier said. “We knew we could never allow that to happen again. And we could only make amends for that moment at this World Cup. Nothing else would fix what happened then. That is exactly what we have been trying to do. We have learned from our mistakes. We have made things right. We have seen the way the country has got behind us and the happiness we are giving out at the same time. We are so close and believe on Wednesday, we can continue this great journey.”