Dominic Calvert-Lewin plan laid out as concerns grow stronger at Leeds United
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s start at Leeds United has sparked mixed reactions.
Leeds United have won one of their last five, heading into the October international break, which, on the face of it, seems poor.
However, the fact that they have dropped four points in the final few minutes of two of those games only amplifies the worries that the Whites will face upon their return to Premier League action.
Many of the concerns raised have still been in regard to the lack of threat posed going forward, with a lot of that pressure on the shoulders of Calvert-Lewin.
Daniel Farke must stick with Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin scored his first Leeds goal against Wolves a few weeks ago, and, albeit for the wrong reasons, has remained in the headlines since.
That is because of how many chances he has spurned in big moments in big games, with Leeds’ defeat to Tottenham a prime example.
The Englishman, as he did against Bournemouth, had several good chances, but failed to take advantage of them, resulting in his side dropping points.
Many have called for the former Toffees star to be dropped as a result, but Ian Darke thinks that the best way to get the most out of him will be to keep showing faith in his abilities.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Darke said: “Keep playing him and build his confidence and keep him fit in the hope that the goals will come, but if we’re being honest about Calvert-Lewin, goals haven’t really come in a flood for him.
“So when you buy Calvert-Lewin, I don’t think it would be in the expectation that he was going to get 20 goals in a season for you.
“I think they’d punch the air in delight if they could get 12-15 goals out of him in the league this season, but he’s got to be a little bit sharper in front of goal than he was at the weekend.”
The concerning numbers around Calvert-Lewin at Leeds
Leeds need goals to stay in the Premier League, and Calvert-Lewin is yet to showcase his credentials to prove that he is the one capable of getting them.
Via FotMob, the 28-year-old has scored one from 1.38 xG, despite having registered seven shots on target so far this season.
While his hold-up play in general has been efficient, there is still a lot of work to be done there, with just 37.1 per cent of his duels resulting in Leeds winning or retaining possession.
Calvert-Lewin has missed the third most big chances in the league, and considering how few Leeds will get in certain games, that will prove costly.
It isn’t a major concern as of right now, but the longer his performances showcase his frailties, the bigger those concerns will become.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Leeds United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @motleedsnews