Dominic Calvert-Lewin made Thomas Tuchel’s life easier after what happened in Leeds draw vs Aston Villa
Dominic Calvert-Lewin simply has to be on the plane to the World Cup for England.
Leeds United secured another valuable point away to Aston Villa on Saturday, taking them up to 31 points for the campaign and still six above the drop zone.
Anton Stach’s spectacular free kick was the only goal of the game for the Whites, and while Calvert-Lewin failed to get on the score sheet, he more than played his part in another impressive result.
It’s now just one goal in his last six appearances for Calvert-Lewin, but his performance against the Villans showcased why he deserves a spot in the England squad, and why it should be at the expense of one of Saturday’s opponents.
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Stats show why Calvert-Lewin should make England squad over Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins has been one of the best strikers in the Premier League for a few years, but his form has dropped off a cliff this season.
The Villa man has eight goals in 37 appearances across all competitions this season, which is two goals fewer than Calvert-Lewin in just 26 games.
That alone showcases why Calvert-Lewin is the better choice to make the England squad at the moment, but the difference in their performances at Villa Park also demonstrates it.
As demonstrated by the below Sofascore graphic, Calvert-Lewin won twice as many aerial duels as Watkins on Saturday, and also completed one more key pass.
It may not seem like a lot, but it showcases that Calvert-Lewin has several qualities to offer his team even when he is not scoring goals.
But also, his heatmap from the game demonstrates how he is willing to drop deep to get involved in the game, which has been a theme of England’s performances over the last few years.
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What is Calvert-Lewin’s England record?
The Leeds forward has not made the England squad since 2021, with his most recent appearance for the Three Lions coming in their 4-0 victory against Ukraine in July of that year.
He came on for the final 17 minutes, replacing Harry Kane, who scored twice in the game.
That was one of 11 appearances he has made for England in his career, with four goals to his name.
Calvert-Lewin scored a brace against San Marino in March 2021, having also scored against Ireland and Wales the year prior.
His form this season certainly warrants a call-up, even if it is to make a late impact in games under Thomas Tuchel.
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