Dier was deemed surplus to requirements by manager Ange Postecoglou in the summer.
After months of not playing, he earned a seemingly unlikely move to Bayern Munich in the winter.
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On finding his best form again, Dier said: Obviously, after the first six months of the season, to be playing in a Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid is something I am very proud of.
I always believed in myself and always believed I should be playing at this level and yes, I kept a bit of blind faith in the first six months of the season and I am proud of the way I carried myself in those six months and that is what has enabled me to be in this position now.
Yes, I would like to think I have shown my mental strength. I had a tough six months but, yes, I believe in my mental strength."