Dominic Calvert-Lewin reveal showcases why Daniel Farke is faced with new Leeds headache
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s record against Man City will give Daniel Farke food for thought ahead of Leeds United’s encounter on Saturday.
Leeds United are looking to prevent Manchester City from doing the league double over them this season, as well as looking to avoid a third home defeat in a row against Pep Guardiola’s side.
The Whites suffered a 3-2 defeat against the Citizens last time out, with Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha on the scoresheet.
But despite the Englishman contributing with a goal in that game, his wider record against Man City demonstrates why Farke is faced with a difficult decision ahead of this weekend’s clash.
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Stats show why Dominic Calvert-Lewin may not start vs Man City
Had it not been for Calvert-Lewin’s goals this season, Leeds would almost certainly be hurtling towards relegation.
However, despite the importance he has shown in the Premier League, Farke has shown a willingness to rotate depending on the opponent, and that may be necessary again this weekend.
The 28-year-old has faced off against Man City on 14 occasions, including 13 in the Premier League, and he has only been able to avoid defeat three times, while also failing to win.
Added to that, Calvert-Lewin has scored just three times in those 14 appearances, and just once since he did so for Everton back in 2019.
It’s also worth noting that the Englishman has played at least 45 minutes in all but one of those 14 encounters.
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Two ways Daniel Farke could deal with Calvert-Lewin concern
The first, and possibly most likely, is to hand Nmecha a start.
Nmecha has six Premier League goals in just seven starts this season, having scored in both of his recent starts for the Whites.
However, the other option is for Farke to utilise both of them, which is something he has rarely looked to do this season.
Calvert-Lewin is at his best when he has players around him, and the same can be said for Nmecha.
The duo could keep the City defender occupied throughout, which would allow more space for the likes of Anton Stach to shine.
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