Dominic Calvert-Lewin's Remarkable Resurgence in the Premier League
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's performance this season has sparked significant conversation in the Premier League. After scoring only one goal in his first ten appearances, doubts were raised about whether the 28-year-old striker's best days were behind him. However, just four weeks later, he has emerged as one of the most talked-about players in England, netting seven goals in his last six matches.
His latest contribution, a goal in the 1-1 draw against Sunderland, has brought his total to eight for the season, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign. Calvert-Lewin joined Leeds United on a free transfer this summer after a nine-year tenure at Everton, where injuries marred his final seasons.
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence is particularly notable within Daniel Farke’s new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation, which has proven effective in utilizing his skills. His six-game scoring streak places him among an elite group of only 11 English players to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches. To put this achievement in perspective, even England captain Harry Kane has never matched such a streak, with his best being two separate five-match runs. The only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin's recent achievement is Jamie Vardy, who recorded an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
As discussions about his potential inclusion in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the upcoming World Cup heat up, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris highlighted what makes Calvert-Lewin difficult to stop. Following a flowing Leeds move, all 11 players touched the ball before Calvert-Lewin finished with a low cross from Brenden Aaronson. "He has the perfect timing," Le Bris remarked. "He is smart and a really good striker who found the right moment to arrive at the ball."
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy noted that Leeds’ tactical shift to a 3-5-2 formation has allowed more players to occupy defenders, giving Calvert-Lewin additional space. Murphy emphasized that Leeds has capitalized on his strengths by delivering early crosses, ensuring he has ample opportunities to score.
Despite his recent success, Calvert-Lewin acknowledges he has a way to go to match his best season, where he scored 21 goals in all competitions for Everton in 2020-21 under Carlo Ancelotti. Reflecting on his journey, he stated, "I’ve been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. It’s a test of character, and I’ve hung in there and kept pushing. I’ve backed myself, and here I am now. I’m feeling good, feeling strong, and I’m enjoying playing with the lads."
Farke has been unsurprised by Calvert-Lewin's current form, labeling him as "one of the best strikers" in the Premier League and deserving of all the praise he receives.
Calvert-Lewin's revival has ignited speculation about a potential England recall. With 11 caps and four goals for the national team, he has not played since Euro 2020. Murphy believes that if Calvert-Lewin maintains his current form, he could be in contention for the World Cup squad. "He looks as fit as he has in a long time," Murphy commented. "His confidence is evident, and he offers something different with his aerial ability. If he keeps this up, he’s a strong candidate for a World Cup place."
However, competition for places is intense. Players like Danny Welbeck, who has scored seven goals for Brighton, and Marcus Rashford, who is regaining form at Barcelona, are also vying for a spot. While Ollie Watkins is currently ahead of Calvert-Lewin, having recently scored a double against Chelsea, Murphy noted that Watkins possesses an edge in pace and impact at major tournaments.
The decision on whether Calvert-Lewin will join the England squad next summer may depend on how many specialist strikers Tuchel opts to include. Murphy concluded, "Every player dreams of playing for England, and Calvert-Lewin has proven he can perform at that level, so he will have that belief in himself. If Tuchel selects three centre-forwards, he definitely has a chance."