Tottenham defender Dier named in England squad

LONDON (AP) - Tottenham defender Eric Dier has been named in the England squad ahead of international friendlies against Spain and France.

The 21-year-old Dier has played in an unfamiliar central midfield role for Spurs this season, and has featured in all but one of his side's opening 11 league matches, scoring two goals.

Coach Roy Hodgson has also selected Fabian Delph despite the midfielder being out since September with a hamstring injury that he picked up during a European Championship qualifier against Switzerland.

In-form Leicester striker Jamie Vardy who tops the scoring charts with 11 goals keeps his place and is joined by forwards Harry Kane and captain Wayne Rooney.

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England squad:

Goalkeepers: Jack Butland (Stoke), Joe Hart (Manchester City), Tom Heaton (Burnley)

Defenders: Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Everton), Kyle Walker (Tottenham)

Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham), Eric Dier (Tottenham), Ross Barkley (Everton), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), James Milner (Liverpool), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea City), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City),

Strikers: Harry Kane (Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Jamie Vardy (Leicester).