Why Eric Dier is not in Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham squad vs Man City

Eric Dier is not part of the Tottenham squad for Sunday's Premier League encounter against Man City. A hugely important game for the Lilywhites as they look to put an end to three successive league defeats, Ange Postecoglou and his players will be hoping to spring a major surprise against the reigning champions.

Following last weekend's 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa, the Spurs boss has made one change to his starting XI with Yves Bissouma coming in for the injured Rodrigo Bentancur. Postecoglou has made a couple of changes on the bench, however, with youngster Yago Santiago and Richarlison named as part of the matchday party.

football.london understands the reason for Dier's absence is due to the fact that he pulled up sore after training ahead of the game. As a result of the England international's absence, Alfie Dorrington is the only centre-back named on the substitutes' bench.

The return of Richarlison to the matchday squad comes as a boost to Postecoglou and Spurs after his recent groin surgery. football.london understands that the Brazilian attacker is only fit enough for five or ten minutes if required.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the game, Postecoglou opened up on the reason why Dier is not part of the squad to face Man City.

«Eric pulled up sore after training and wasn't available. He's not available for today,» said the 58-year-old. «I think Emerson and Benny [Davies] considering it's not their natural position they have done well for us. It's more about the collective for us as we need to defend strongly as a unit as a group and try and stop them.»

On Yves Bissouma's return to the team and Richarlison taking his place in the matchday squad once again, he added: «It's good to get Biss back. He's obviously had