England defender Eric Dier admits his expertise of the World Cup has been tarnished by the controversy surrounding host nation Qatar. With England’s opening recreation in opposition to Iran simply two days away, Dier would normally have been quizzed about his staff’s World Cup problem when he confronted the media on Saturday. But as an alternative the 28-year-old, enjoying in his second World Cup, was peppered with questions concerning the host of points involving Qatar which have overshadowed the build-up to the event.

To his credit score, the erudite Dier did not shirk the potential public relations minefield.

He tackled the deaths of migrant employees throughout World Cup development initiatives, the late choice to ban alcohol from most areas of stadiums and the row over whether or not or not staff captains will put on ‘OneLove’ rainbow armbands.

“It’s extremely difficult for us as players. We know these topics are going to be addressed,” Dier advised reporters at England’s coaching camp in Doha.

“A lot of things have already happened, things that are very disappointing. They will always be on my mind.

Sponsored by Vuukle

“In the constructing of the stadiums for instance. Obviously that is a horrible state of affairs.

“Of course it’s taken a lot away (from the tournament), because we are sitting here talking about it instead of the football. But we can’t hide from it. It’s here. It would be wrong to ignore it.”

On the choice by FIFA and Qatari officers to ban alcohol from stadiums, besides in hospitality areas for high-paying spectators, Dier stated: “Personally I’d like to think you can enjoy yourself without alcohol.

“It’s as much as us on the pitch to offer the leisure. That’s what will create the ambiance within the stadiums.”

‘Principles and values’

England captain Harry Kane is still set to wear a ‘OneLove’ armband against discrimination despite FIFA announcing plans for its own armband in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised.

FIFA confirmed its armbands would be worn as part of a partnership with United Nations agencies.

But the Football Association, who are understood to be seeking clarity on whether the armbands can be worn together, are believed to be ready to support the ‘OneLove’ campaign regardless

Such divisive topics can take players out of their comfort zone and Dier said: “We are footballers, not politicians. When the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, I used to be 16 on the time.

“Those decisions are made by people way above us. We’re the ones who end up sitting here having to answer these questions. As a team we won’t change our principles and values.”

Despite all of the controversy, Dier continues to be glad to be on the World Cup after he was left of the England squad that completed as European Championship runners-up final yr.

“When I missed out on the Euros squad it was one of the worst moments of my career. I was extremely motivated to get back in and be here at the World Cup,” he stated.

“We are all human. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think that it was a possibility I wouldn’t go. Those thoughts go through your mind.

“In some ways it was good for me. It propelled me to play the most effective soccer of my profession.”

(This story has not been edited by NDTV employees and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Featured Video Of The Day

Six City Based Teams All Set To Take Part In India Racing League In Hyderabad