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The improved Everton star who is ready to perform at the highest level

There is always a player that surprises fans and pundits in the Premier League as the season progresses. In this campaign, it's been Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Gary McCarty 23/11/2020 1comment  |  Jump to last

There is always a player that surprises fans and pundits in the Premier League as the season progresses.

In this campaign, it's been Dominic Calvert-Lewin. So much so, the Everton striker has managed to establish himself as a member of the England squad, and it seems inevitable that he will play his part in the upcoming major tournament.

With England 5/1 joint-favourites in the latest Euro 2020 odds, every player knows they could be part of a squad that is capable of making history and receiving legendary status. However, the only way Calvert-Lewin can do that is by maintaining his promising start and continuing to defy those who doubted him.

The striker scored on the opening day of the season as Everton beat Tottenham, and he followed it up with a hat-trick against West Brom. While this was somewhat downplayed by critics, he's carried on scoring.

When you combine that ruthless streak with his athleticism, link-up play, and strength; Calvert-Lewin is emerging as the complete striker. Of course, he still has areas of his game to improve, but key coaches recognise the talent he has.

Carlo Ancelotti quickly saw the potential of a partnership with Richarlison at Goodison Park, and Gareth Southgate has utilised the former Sheffield United man as well.

Having scored the winner as England's U20s won the World Cup, the Toffees attacker will have always felt he was destined to play on the biggest stage. However, that's a view that wasn't always shared by those who watched him.

Former Everton managers would shift him out wide, in some cases even as a wing-back, and his willingness to help the team meant he often did that without any complaints. Now, in his best position, he is playing for his country; and goals against Wales and Ireland proved the pressure of wearing the Three Lions shirt won't hold Calvert-Lewin back. 

Obviously, the form of Harry Kane means he may have to accept a role as a backup. But, as mentioned, Calvert-Lewin now seems nailed on to feature in the Euros.

Perhaps the most exciting thing about the rise of the striker, for both club and country, is that he is still so young. At 23, his best years are in front of him and he should improve as he is exposed to bigger games both domestically and internationally.

Plus, working under Ancelotti, who has coached the likes of Didier Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, among a host of other ridiculously talented forwards, is only going to help. The major obstacle facing Calvert-Lewin is to find the consistency and mentality that all the truly elite players have. Physically, there won't be many who have the qualities he possesses, but it's about delivering on a regular basis.

Given the remarkable rise the striker has had over the past 12 months, there's nothing to suggest he won't take this into his stride and continue to develop.

If he does that, it could be a memorable year for the player. With Everton pushing for European football and England chasing glory at Euro 2020, Calvert-Lewin has the potential to make his mark on both.

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Robert Tressell
1 Posted 26/11/2020 at 15:10:22
The progress in the last year is incredible. Testament to hard work, excellent attitude, good coaching and a better team structure around him. We'd be saying the same thing about Holgate too if he'd have been fit this season.

I thought Calvert-Lewin played like Alan Shearer at times against Fulham. Too physical and clever with his body for the opposition to handle. And he scores goals.

Obviously he needs to keep going, but I don't see that being a problem.

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