Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Fri 1 May 2026 12:40, UK

Leeds United star Dominic Calvert-Lewin could yet land himself a spot in England’s World Cup squad this summer.

The Whites took a gamble on the 29-year-old in the summer, and it has certainly paid off with his 11 Premier League goals.

His electric form from earlier in the season may have slowed down in recent weeks, but that doesn’t take away from how good he has been at times.

That has ultimately helped the striker return to the international stage after receiving a call-up from Thomas Tuchel in March.

Calvert-Lewin may become a mainstay of this England squad ahead of the World Cup, especially with Ollie Watkins coming under fire.

Stan Collymore leaves scathing review of Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins

There has been a long-standing discussion ahead of the summer tournament over who will be Harry Kane’s understudy.

The Bayern Munich man has been as good as ever this season as he continues to break all records with the Bundesliga giants.

There is no one even near his level right now, but it was Dominic Solanke and Calvert-Lewin who got the nod in the most recent squad.

That saw Watkins watch from home as the Three Lions played a friendly double header against Japan and Uruguay.

The Villa man’s form has picked up in recent weeks, but he has failed to convince Collymore, who believes the Leeds star would be a better selection right now.

He took to X to say: “Watkins. Have gone to bat for him when others would have dropped him, but he’s nowhere near Kane’s backup level right now.

“He may struggle to get on the plane. A fit Calvert-Lewin gives a whole lot more reliable front play.”

That will be music to the ears of fans at Elland Road, with Calvert-Lewin potentially able to look forward to the World Cup in the summer.

Leeds star Dominic Calvert-Lewin must take golden England World Cup chance

At 29, this could be the final true opportunity the former Everton man gets to go to a World Cup with his country.

He last played in an international tournament in EURO 2020, where he made two appearances as the Three Lions lost to Italy in the final.

It may be six years later, but the upcoming tournament in North America could be the perfect chance for him to feature on the biggest stage of all.

With Watkins struggling, Calvert-Lewin now needs to take the initiative and go score goals before the season comes to an end.

If he can do that, he may give Tuchel no choice but to let him take his seat on the plane, ready for the summer.