Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Fri 24 April 2026 7:10, UK

Leeds United pulled off a masterstroke by signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin as a free agent last summer.

In hindsight, concerns about the former Everton striker’s fitness were overblown and his ability to lead the line has been evident this season.

Daniel Farke secured another crucial point at the Vitality Stadium, with the West Yorkshire outfit now nine points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.

The England international has netted just once in his last eight league appearances, but sources have told The i Paper on 23 April that the centre-forward has placed demands on his teammates to ensure survival in the current campaign.

Calvert-Lewin’s dressing room presence at Elland Road is arguably worth its weight in gold, and it goes to show the attacker is more than what meets the eye on the pitch.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin contribution being overlooked at Leeds United

Calvert-Lewin has scored 11 goals and provided two Premier League assists this season, but it’s the other parts of his game that deserve appreciation.

The striker’s hold-up play and ability to bring teammates into play can’t be overstated and he’s always a handful for defenders, winning 3.6 aerial duels per game, as per Sofascore.

In recent matches, the 29-year-old has made some pivotal defensive contributions, and his presence in the box is felt, recording 1.1 clearances per game.

The English striker has also recovered the ball 1.3 times and won possession in the final third 0.5 times per game, highlighting his importance to Farke’s high-pressing style.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin can be even better at Elland Road next season

Leeds want to sign a new striker for Farke in the summer if they survive relegation, which looks increasingly likely now.

Calvert-Lewin has looked much better when starting alongside Lukas Nmecha, but it doesn’t seem like the German manager trusts the former VfL Wolfsburg ace to start every game.

If the Whites end up signing a number nine in the upcoming transfer window, the Englishman could potentially take his game up a level with someone of quality playing alongside him.

A party atmosphere will engulf LS11 sooner rather than later as they are close to surviving the drop back to the Championship.