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Striker finds new life after Everton exit
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has reignited his Premier League career at Leeds United, scoring nine goals this season and positioning himself for a potential England recall ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
From injury struggles to scoring form
After nine years at Everton, where injuries limited him to just three goals in his final season, Calvert-Lewin admitted he needed a fresh start. His move to Leeds last summer has proven transformative, with seven goals in his last six games.
"I felt like I'd gone from a 19-year-old boy to a 28-year-old man," he told BBC Sport. "Deep down, I knew I needed a change. When Leeds showed interest, I felt this was the right place to thrive."
Manager's faith key to resurgence
Leeds manager Daniel Farke played a pivotal role in Calvert-Lewin's revival. The striker revealed Farke spent 30 minutes on their first call emphasizing his belief in restoring the player's form.
"He has a human side that makes players more attentive to his message. That ultimately helps us perform better."
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin described himself as a player who needs both motivation and support, saying Farke was the ideal manager for his situation six months ago.
No regrets over Everton struggles
The striker's best Premier League season came in 2020-21 with 16 goals, but injuries disrupted his momentum in subsequent years. Despite this, he views those challenges as part of his journey.
"It's made me who I am today. Conditions matter in this league, and I had to keep pushing with a strong mindset."
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Free agency challenges
Last summer marked Calvert-Lewin's first experience as a free agent after leaving Everton. He described the process as frustrating, with clubs taking their time despite his availability.
"Teams know you're there, so they wait. Seeing players move for £40-50m while you're free makes you scratch your head. But you can't let your ego take a hit. What's meant for you won't pass you by."
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
England hopes alive
With 11 caps but no appearances since 2021, Calvert-Lewin believes he can force his way back into the England squad. His current form has reignited World Cup discussions.
"I still believed it even when I was pushing my daughter on the swing in summer. If I'd stopped believing, I wouldn't be here now."
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
England's March friendlies against Uruguay and Japan will be crucial, with Thomas Tuchel set to name his World Cup squad afterward. Calvert-Lewin remains focused on maintaining his form.
"I'm not there yet. There's still six or seven games before March. The quality of English players is phenomenal, but the pinnacle would be getting back into the England team."
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
