Bayern Munich defender Eric Dier had little doubt that one other former Tottenham player, Harry Kane, would mark his long-awaited return to north London with one other goal against Arsenal.
Spurs’ all-time record goalscorer converted a first-half penalty in Tuesday night’s Champions League quarter-final first leg to attain a remarkable fifteenth profession goal against the Premier League leaders.
A penalty, scored for William Saliba’s strike on Leroy Sane, contributed to Serge Gnabry’s goal and gave Bayern the lead after Bukayo Saka’s early goal, before Leandro Trossard equalized to make it 2-2.
Dier shared the pantomime role with England captain Kane at the Emirates Stadium and was not surprised when his long-time teammate scored his thirty ninth goal in an excellent individual campaign.
“The statistics suggest he would have scored,” Dier said. “Honestly, he is expected to score almost everywhere.
“It was a great penalty and Leroy did unbelievable to get it.
“It will be a great second match. We can’t wait for it. We will do everything to move on.”
Asked about the constant jeers from the raucous crowd, Dier replied: “We both expected it, so it’s nice. It’s part of football. It’s something to enjoy.”
Bayern have endured a disappointing Bundesliga season by their very own lofty standards and are on the verge of relinquishing the title for the first time in 12 seasons.
Undefeated, runaway leaders Bayer Leverkusen could wrest the crown from Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead of next week’s second leg against the Gunners.
Continental glory is Bayern’s only probability to salvage the campaign and Dier believes the six-time European champion’s pedigree could prove crucial.
“Obviously the club has an incredible history in the Champions League and we have a lot of Champions League-winning players in the team who have incredible experience in the competition,” said the 30-year-old.
“It gives you confidence in yourself and as a club.
“We at all times demand to win every match, win the Champions League and win titles. It’s normal pressure in such a club. You are expected to at all times attempt to win. “
Bayern will have to be without Gnabry “for now” resulting from a hamstring injury.
The German club confirmed that an examination revealed that the 28-year-old had suffered a strain in his left hamstring at the Emirates Stadium.
Credit : www.independent.co.uk
