Robinson issues emphatic Eric Dier verdict after Tottenham injury update today
Paul Robinson has claimed Tottenham defender Eric Dier is thriving as a right-sided centre-half in the absence of Cristian Romero.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former White Hart Lane number one is adamant Dier, 28, "can play anywhere across the back three" in Antonio Conte's system.
Romero has been sidelined since the 1-1 draw with Sporting Lisbon on 26 October.
Dier and Davinson Sanchez have played in the right centre-back role in the Argentina international's absence.
According to the Evening Standard's Dan Kilpatrick (3 November), Romero will not be available for Spurs prior to the World Cup.
Antonio Conte's side face Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United before the international break.
When asked by Football Insider who should play in the right-sided centre-half role for the next three games, Robinson said: "Eric can play anywhere across the back three.
"He was excellent on the right-hand side against Bournemouth when he came on.
"I think he's started predominantly in the middle because the team has been doing so well with him there. He has been one of the most consistent players.
"I have no qualms with him playing on the right-hand side of that back three though.
"I'm adamant Gareth Southgate is going to pick him for the World Cup. If England choose to play a three at the back then Dier should start regardless of where it is across that back three."