The versatile Spurs ace discussed how he felt when he found out Harry Kane had been named Three Lions skipper for the 2018 World Cup

Eric Dier saw it as “fully deserved” that Harry Kane was named as England’s captain for the World Cup and felt delight for his Tottenham Hotspur team-mate rather than disappointment at missing out on the role himself.

Dier and Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson were viewed as contenders along with Kane before it was confirmed last week that the striker would have the armband for the tournament in Russia.

Dier, who has captained England in friendlies against Germany, Brazil and Italy over the past year, has backed boss Gareth Southgate’s decision while also stressing his intention to still be a leader on the pitch.

The 24-year-old said in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT when asked if he had felt a tinge of disappointment at not landing the job: “No, not really.

“I wasn’t disappointed. I’m very happy for Harry to be given the opportunity. I think it’s fully deserved.

“And one of the things Gareth said when he spoke to us was that he wants things to continue in the same way, where he has leaders all over the pitch, and hopefully I can continue to do that as well.

“I think it’s important that the whole team, everyone has to share the responsibility between everyone.

“It would be unfair on Harry or anyone else or the manager himself that they should have to take all the responsibility. Everyone has to take ownership.”

Dier added of Kane: “The way he carries himself, the way he works, the way he trains, the way you see him in games I think are all the attributes you need to be a good captain.

“I am really happy for him. It is going to be a really special tournament for him, to be able to lead the team out.”

Dier, who has been capped 25 times and scored three goals for England, is one of a number of versatile players in Southgate’s 23-man squad for Russia.

He can operate as a midfielder or centre-back, and has emphasised he would have no issue playing in the latter position if called upon.

“If people see me that way (as versatile) I think that’s only a positive really,” Dier said.

“I’d be very comfortable doing that and very adequate to do that job. I’ve played there a lot for my club and it’s something I think I can definitely do.”

There has been plenty of talk about Southgate’s squad lacking experience, and when Dier was asked about that, he said: “My view has always been the same - I don’t pay too much attention to experience.

“I think it is all about your mentality and attitude and the way you approach things.”