Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Sun 29 March 2026 8:40, UK

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has left the England camp early, with the Leeds United striker reacting following his return to St George’s Park.

The 29-year-old was called up by Thomas Tuchel as a reward for his performances throughout the Premier League season.

However, with the German opting to call up 35 players for the two international friendlies this break, it was always likely that many of those would have a short stint in the camp.

Unfortunately, for Calvert-Lewin, he will not be in the squad to face Japan on Tuesday, missing out on a clash against fellow Leeds teammate Ao Tanaka.

However, while the Englishman may be disappointed another cap will not land his way, Farke will be delighted his striker gets a rest before a crucial period of games for Leeds.

What has Dominic Calvert-Lewin said after returning to Leeds early

Calvert-Lewin featured for just 36 minutes against Uruguay, and after waiting so long for his next chance for the Three Lions, he would have been hoping for more.

After being sent home early by Tuchel, the Englishman will now hope he does not have to wait as long for his next cap as he had previously done before.

Despite likely being disappointed he will not get another chance this break, the 29-year-old has remained upbeat, issuing a message to supporters.

Taking to Instagram, Calvert-Lewin said: “An honour to be back wearing the England shirt, loved every minute,” with a heart emoji attached as well.

This international break marked just the 12th cap for the Leeds striker and his first international appearance since featuring in the quarter-final of EURO 2020.

Why Calvert-Lewin’s World Cup dream is not yet over

While Calvert-Lewin leaving early is a bad omen for his World Cup chances, there is plenty of time for the 29-year-old to continue to prove why he should be on the plane.

However, he must now prove that for Leeds and make it a difficult decision for Tuchel to leave him out.

The Whites have a chance at FA Cup glory with a trip to face West Ham at London Stadium on 5 April, the only obstacle ahead of reaching a Wembley semi-final.

While Leeds will have a focus on staying in the Premier League, they will also not want this chance in the cup to go missing.

If Calvert-Lewin’s goals can deliver FA Cup success and keep the Peacocks in the top flight, it would be hard for Tuchel not to notice.

The Englishman’s World Cup dream may still be on.