Dominic Calvert-Lewin Emerges as Key England Striker

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has become a key backup striker for England after scoring 20 goals for Leeds United since his August 2025 transfer, including five in the current season’s first six matches. His improved form has increased his chances of future national team selection, such as for the 2028 European Championships, highlighting his ongoing resurgence.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is solidifying his role as an important backup striker for the England national team, according to Leeds United manager Daniel Farke. Since joining Leeds in August 2025, Calvert-Lewin has scored 20 goals, with five coming in the opening six games of the current season, marking a significant improvement compared to his earlier years at Everton, where his goal tally remained in the single digits over multiple seasons.

Farke highlighted Calvert-Lewin's strong belief in himself and the club as a key factor in his resurgence, describing the free-agent signing as a “perfect fit” and “a really good piece of business” for Leeds. His form has brought him close to national team selection, and although he narrowly missed out on the World Cup squad during the summer, his recent performances have made future inclusion, such as in the 2028 European Championships at home, more likely.

Leeds’ coach drew comparisons between Calvert-Lewin and fellow England striker Harry Kane, who currently plays for Bayern Munich and has recorded six goals in seven appearances this season. While acknowledging Kane’s status as a Ballon d’Or contender and his impressive accomplishments, including multiple titles, Farke emphasized that Calvert-Lewin has distinct strengths and deserves recognition for his consistent performances and ability to maintain form over time.

In related news, Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage addressed fans' reactions to forward Ismaila Sarr, who has faced some boos despite ongoing support. Sage attributed the mixed response partly to fan disappointment following Sarr’s blocked summer transfer move to Liverpool. He called for patience in Sarr’s recovery from a long-term injury and expressed confidence that the player’s performance will improve as he regains full fitness.

Overall, Calvert-Lewin’s revival at club level has reestablished him as a valuable asset both for Leeds United and the England squad, reflecting a broader narrative of perseverance and progress for the 27-year-old forward. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace continues to manage expectations around key players returning from injury as the season progresses.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.