Tottenham defender Eric Dier admits he's relieved to have reached the World Cup with England injury-free.

Dier must now switch his focus to the World Cup with England as the first match against Iran arrives just nine days after Tottenham's 4-3 victory against Leeds on Saturday. The defender said he never had the competition in the back of his mind and the fear of injury, but he is glad now that he managed to avoid any problems.

"It is a strange situation. Like a week or so, nine days and it starts. I can't believe it - I just want to go home and go to sleep!" said the centre-back. "It's been a really tough period, I don't even know how long it's been, it feels like a year but it's been about six weeks. It's been really tough for everyone, at every club, players, staff and medical departments, coaching staff.

"It's been a tough period and I am just really happy to get through it with no injuries, and in general we have done well to get through it. Disappointed with a few results towards the end, but I think everyone has experienced that - you look at Manchester City today - it's been a tough period for everyone."

England will flew out on Tuesday to prepare for the tournament in Qatar and Dier admits it was a special moment to find out he was in the squad.

"Yeah, of course [it was a big deal]. I am extremely proud to play at my second World Cup. Obviously I am well aware it is a very privileged position to be in," he said. "There was a time when I thought I wasn't going to be in anyway involved with England anymore.

"I have had to work very hard, fight a lot to get back in. I am very proud of that. I am proud to be going to another World Cup. I can't wait. It is going to be an incredible experience. I am really looking forward to being a part of it."