Former England and Tottenham manager Glenn Hoddle has called on Eric Dier to improve after a "really poor" mistake almost cost the Three Lions a point against Slovenia.
Interm England boss Gareth Southgate dropped captain Wayne Rooney for Tuesday's 2018 World Cup qualifier in Ljubljana, and had goalkeeper Joe Hart to thank as a string of fine saves earned a goalless draw.
Hart denied Roman Bezjak after Dier's under-hit back-pass had let in the Slovenia attacker in the first half, while Jasmin Kurtic's follow-up hitting the post as England escaped with a point.
Dier and stand-in skipper Jordan Henderson both struggled to control the midfield, but former Spurs midfielder Hoddle says the 22-year-old needs to step up his performances.
Commentating for ITV Sport, Hoddle said: "He’s not even looked up, it’s laziness from Dier, really poor.
"On the ball he has to sharpen up a little bit. He has had some time out and looks behind everyone else in terms of his awareness.
"In the centre of that pitch you have to have your eyes everywhere and be on top of your game."
Wayne Rooney: England highs and lows
Southgate said of England's uninspiring display: "The overall objective is to qualify so long term that could be an important point.
"Everyone can see we could be better but their chances came from our mistakes or set-pieces.
"I can't thank the players and support team enough for the backing I have had.
"We wanted six points but we have taken over a mess and had to steady the ship. We are on track."
