Coral’s five loan destinations for Tottenham defender Eric Dier

Tottenham, 7/1 with Coral for a top four finish, may have no room at the inn to develop England Under-21 defender Eric Dier.

The former Sporting Lisbon star made a fine start to life at White Hart Lane, netting twice in his first two matches, but has struggled for game time recently and could be shipped out on loan.

Mauricio Pochettino appears to prefer the partnership of Federico Fazio and Jan Vertonghen in central defence, whilst Kyle Walker’s return means Dier will also face increased competition at right back.

Here, we consider which teams could benefit from snapping up the versatile centre half this Christmas.

Aston Villa
Paul Lambert’s side could be an ideal destination for young Dier. Having stuck by Tom Cleverley, Villa have proven they will play loanees and allow them a fair crack of the whip.

With rumours circulating that Louis van Gaal is looking to snare Villans skipper Ron Vlaar in the January sales, Dier could certainly find space at Villa Park.

Ex-Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos is currently sidelined, meaning the Spurs starlet would only have to challenge Ivorian-born Denmark international Jores Okore and the Republic of Ireland’s Ciaran Clark for a starting spot.

Hull City
The Tigers, 9/2 to finish bottom, desperately need an injection of quality in the winter window, as they struggle to escape the relegation zone.

Ex-Tottenham captain Michael Dawson could be out of action for around a month with a hamstring injury, leaving Steve Bruce’s side on shaky ground.

Now could be the time for Dier to step in, and who better to mentor him than former centre back Bruce? Cheltenham-born Dier’s composure on the ball, goal threat and ability to pick a pass could all help Hull to build from the back.

Southampton
The Saints may have to brace themselves for a mega bid for right back Nathaniel Clyne this January, while also temporarily losing Japan defender Maya Yoshida to the 2015 Asian Cup.