Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the Leeds United striker, has garnered attention for his recent performances, with former England defender Jamie Carragher describing his display against Newcastle United as “almost perfect” and “unplayable.” Calvert-Lewin scored in Leeds’ 4-1 victory over Newcastle at Elland Road on Monday night, earning a standing ovation from the home crowd.
Carragher suggested that a change of club can sometimes revitalise a player, noting that the move was beneficial for both Calvert-Lewin and his former club, Everton. He also expressed that as an ex-centre-back, he would be reluctant to face the striker in his current form.
Calvert-Lewin’s recent form includes scoring three goals in his last four games, positioning him as the leading English striker in the Premier League. He is also the second Leeds player to score in five consecutive Premier League appearances at Elland Road, a feat previously achieved by Mark Viduka between March and August 2003.
Calvert-Lewin’s impact and England call-up
The striker’s performances have put him in contention for an England squad selection, as head coach Thomas Tuchel prepares to announce his squad for upcoming Nations League fixtures against Spain and the Czech Republic. Calvert-Lewin was previously called up by England in March after impressing in his debut season with Leeds United. He featured for England against Uruguay during that international window but ultimately did not participate in the World Cup.
Former England international Michael Owen has also praised Calvert-Lewin, expressing surprise that Manchester United did not consider him as an option to strengthen their forward line. Owen highlighted Calvert-Lewin’s effectiveness when fit, despite a history of injury problems throughout his career.
Owen noted that Leeds invested in Calvert-Lewin last summer, and he has since repaid their confidence. He scored 15 goals across all competitions in an injury-free campaign under Daniel Farke. Owen added that Calvert-Lewin is now “in a different world,” playing consistently and appearing dangerous.
Forward options and squad depth
The discussion around Calvert-Lewin’s form has also brought up Manchester United’s approach to their attacking options. United signed Benjamin Sesko for £74 million last summer, but for several seasons, the club has reportedly lacked a traditional alternative centre-forward.
When Sesko has been unavailable or on the bench, Michael Carrick has reportedly used Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha to lead the attack. Teddy Sheringham, a former striker, believes that the current squad would benefit from a similar level of variety and experience in their attacking lineup, akin to the four centre-forwards who featured under Sir Alex Ferguson during the club’s treble-winning season.
Sheringham commented on the demands of playing as a lone number nine, stating it requires a specific type of player capable of leading the line, holding up the ball, running channels, and scoring goals. He suggested that while Sesko shows promise, he may not yet be a “great player” and that experience and confidence are crucial for that role.
Calvert-Lewin’s header for Leeds’ second goal against Newcastle on Monday was ultimately awarded to teammate Jayden Bogle after a final touch.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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