Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino has suggested that Eric Dier's versatility will prove to be important for the team in the coming years.
The 21-year-old, who only moved to White Hart Lane last summer, signed a new five-year deal with the club earlier today, keeping him in North London until at least 2020.
The England Under-21 international spent the majority of last season in defence but has been deployed in a central midfield role so far this term.
"He has played well in midfield and was comfortable in that position. Eric's skill is he can play in different positions in the pitch," Pochettino is quoted as saying by PA.
"Eric started last season as a full-back and scored in the first two games. He can also play at centre-back, and it is good for him because he is young and he improves a lot. When you play in different positions you add to your game and so gain better tools to be a better player."
Dier has made 41 appearances in all competitions for Spurs, scoring three goals.