Leeds United pulled off a bit of a transfer coup when they agreed a deal to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the summer. After a tricky start, Leeds have been vindicated in the decision to land the striker.
After 10 Premier League appearances for Leeds, Calvert-Lewin had one goal. It is believed the England star is one of the highest earners at Elland Road, and fans were becoming concerned he was past his best.
However, the last five games have proved that the former Everton man still has that fire in his belly, that natural nous to score goals. Calvert-Lewin’s goal map is telling, all seven central and within 10 yards.
England need Dominic Calvert-Lewin more than they need Ollie Watkins – surely? 🦁🦁🦁
Who are you taking and why?
On Saturday night, Calvert-Lewin took his tally to seven for the season. But six goals in five games. He has scored in five consecutive Premier League games; Mark Viduka is the only other to do that for Leeds.
But his arrival in the summer was not as plain sailing as many might imagine. Indeed, Calvert-Lewin had interest from all over Europe, not just Premier League clubs with Italy and Turkey calling for the striker.
Wayne Rooney on Man United’s links with Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin himself admitted he rejected Champions League clubs. Reports say that Jose Mourinho was keen, but Calvert-Lewin rejected an £18m wage packet from Fenerbahce, he wanted to stay in England.
Newcastle, Milan and Man United all made moves for Calvert-Lewin. But the striker chose Leeds because he felt he would be first choice. Wayne Rooney explains why Man United didn’t sign him, on his podcast.
“There were talks weren’t there, he was linked [with Man United]. Purely, and not because of his ability as a player, but purely because of his injury record, it was very difficult for anyone to take that chance.
“Allow him to take up a spot and spend that money on him. There was talk of Leeds taking him on a pay-as-you-play, that is where he was with injuries. You forget how good he is, seeing the goals he’s scoring.”
Answer this: Leeds United will finish in ___th place if Dominic Calvert-Lewin stays fit 📊
Six goals in five for the big man!
Who has been Leeds United’s best signing so far?
Farke and Underwood combined to make 10 signings in the summer. Of those 10, eight have been used regularly by the Leeds manager, with Sebastiaan Bornauw and James Justin being made to wait for a go.
Lucas Perri, Jaka Bijol and Calvert-Lewin all started slowly, while it has been up and down for Anton Stach and Noah Okafor. Lukas Nmecha too, who has four goals but has since picked up a lengthy calf injury.
Sean Longstaff the same – brilliant to begin with, now injured. But if you are picking Leeds’ best signing of the summer window, it is impossible to look past Calvert-Lewin at the moment. His goal rate is excellent.
While Gary Lineker and Rooney may agree talk of an England World Cup call-up is premature, it is easy to see why. If he continues this form, Calvert-Lewin has the power to single-handedly keep Leeds up.
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