Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has dismissed Sam Allardyce's suggestion that Eric Dier is on a par with Sergio Busquets.

Speaking after England's 3-2 win over Spain on Monday evening, Allardyce claimed that La Roja and Barcelona midfielder Busquets is "no better than" Tottenham Hotspur counterpart Dier.

Dier produced one of his finest displays yet in an England shirt as he outperformed Busquets on a memorable night for the Three Lions, but Ferdinand has leapt to the defence of the latter, who boasts seven Spanish titles, three Champions Leagues the European Championship and a World Cup crown.

"Come on Big Sam!! Busquets has been the best holding midfielder for years and been an integral part in Barcelona and Spain's most successful periods," he posted on his personal Twitter account.

"'He's no better than Eric Dier'. With all due respect Eric Dier himself would be embarrassed with that comment!"

Dier has started seven of Tottenham's eight Premier League games this term and netted a rare goal in their 1-0 win against Cardiff City last time out.