Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Dominic Calvert-Lewin with the England squad. Credit: Imago
Leeds United took the gamble on Dominic Calvert-Lewin when clubs avoided him during the summer. After his last season at Everton, he decided to leave to find a new challenge.
During the summer window, weeks had gone by and no established club had publicly made a move for the striker. The 49ers made the approach and the pitch from Daniel Farke sealed the deal. In a recent interview, the former Everton one said Farke’s words were a huge deciding factor for him moving to Elland Road.
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Not everyone at the club was convinced when Leeds announced the deal; most fans were not impressed by his injury record and how much he was reportedly going to be paid that season. But the striker worked hard and showed his quality as the season went on – 10 goals in all competitions and great performances were enough for Thomas Tuchel to make the call.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin opens up after England call up
Last week, it was announced that Dominic Calvert-Lewin will join the England squad for the first time since 2021. His performances at Leeds United earned him a spot, and now he has the chance to make the final selection for the World Cup in the summer. The striker trained with the squad on Tuesday, and had an interview where he opened up on his return to the Three Lions setup.
“It is hard to put into words, I’m probably not really taking it in yet that I am going to be joining up with the squad and have an England call up,” he said.
“It has been a long road to get that recognition of having the opportunity to represent England again, so I am absolutely delighted. It is always nice when a plan comes together, we spoke a lot together about what the next steps where, and I can’t wait to get out there and feel how special it’s going to be.
“It has been a long road. I was a million miles away from where I am now, not so long ago. So I thank my wife and my daughter who are my foundation around me, as I would not be in this position without them.”
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Leeds United need to look beyond England striker
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been a great addition this season, and he has been the best attacker at the club. His 10 goals have been really important, and he has bailed the team out of trouble so many times. However, with his recent goal drought, the club has realized they cannot solely depend on him for the whole season.
Reports have emerged that the Whites could dip into the market for a new center forward this summer. And that is the best decision the team should be taking; looking at the England star’s age and injury history, getting a quality striker who can provide competition is the way to go. Leeds have struggled in front of goal this season, and adding another goal threat could be a huge boost for Daniel Farke.