Eric Dier is just one of the many English players to have impressed for Tottenham this season, with his call-up to the England squad being the latest recognition of this.
His current position and the fact he can play centrally and on the right of defence also makes him a useful squad player.
While much of the talk has been about his teammate Dele Alli, the unnoticed role of Dier is equally crucial to Spurs' success so far this season.
BECOME A WRITER
Do you have what it takes? Sign up today and send over your 250 word test article: https://gms.to/haveyoursay3
The defender-turned-holding midfielder, who came through the academy at Sporting Lisbon, shows a composure in possession and tactical awareness not present in most English players.
With Jordan Henderson and Jack Wilshere both injured, the England midfield is now a problem for manager Roy Hodgson. Even when both fit, the question marks surrounding Wilshere as a holding midfield player remain and with few other alternatives barring an ageing Michael Carrick.
But now, Dier gives England an option and a defensive awareness that Wilshere will never possess. Both he and Alli could be a future international midfield for years to come, with the prospect of those two playing together an inviting one for Hodgson.
When combined with Ross Barkley, Raheem Sterling, Wayne Rooney and Harry Kane; England have got some very talented and exciting attacking players to choose from. The problem will be trying to fit these players into a system that gets the best out of all of them.
Even if not considered a starter for Euro 16, expect Dier to be hunting for a place in the 2018 World Cup opening XI, providing he maintains his current form, of course.
Mauricio Pochettino deserves a lot of credit for his attitude towards English players, showing once again that young players from this country do have talent if given the time and patience to grow and develop.
Many other bosses should be watching and learning from a manager who is quickly growing a reputation as one of the best young coaches in the world.
Do YOU want to write for GiveMeSport? Get started today by signing-up and submitting an article HERE: https://www.givemesport.com/writeforgms
