Daniel Farke says Calvert-Lewin can force his way into England’s World Cup squad

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has hailed Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s resurgence, insisting the striker is “one of the best English strikers in the Premier League” and has a genuine chance of returning to the England squad ahead of next summer’s World Cup. The 28-year-old has hit a rich patch of form, scoring four goals in his last four matches, and Farke believes his sharp upturn in fitness and confidence is steering him back toward the prolific standards he set earlier in his career.

Calvert-Lewin’s best spell came during the 2020/21 season, when he netted 21 goals in 39 appearances for Everton. Since then, his progress has been repeatedly halted by injuries, limiting his ability to build rhythm or consistency on the pitch. Farke highlighted that history, stressing that the challenge for Leeds is not just to extract performances, but to protect his fitness and ensure long-term continuity.

“First of all, he had a lack of game time, not just last season but I would say over the last couple of years,” Farke explained. “Many small injuries, and right now, it is crucial to take care of him, so that he stays fit and can train regularly. It needs a few weeks to find belief in your body again, and also the confidence in your game, and then to be in a good rhythm — and this is more or less what has happened since he walked through the door.

“We are all pretty fortunate and grateful that we have him in such good shape.”

Calvert-Lewin’s form has naturally reignited discussion around his international prospects. The forward has 11 caps for England and scored on his debut, but injuries and competition for places meant he slipped out of Gareth Southgate’s plans in the final years of his tenure. With Thomas Tuchel now leading the national team and preparing for the 2026 World Cup, the competition at centre-forward remains open behind captain Harry Kane.

Marcus Rashford can operate through the middle but is regularly deployed from the left at Barcelona. Ollie Watkins has been outstanding for Aston Villa, but beyond those two, there is space for a traditional No. 9 with Calvert-Lewin’s profile: strong in the air, aggressive in duels, intelligent in link play and excellent at attacking crosses.

“He’s done it before,” Farke noted. “He has several caps for England. He also has quite a good goal record, so his quality and his potential was and is never in doubt. I don’t give any advice or recommendations to Thomas [Tuchel], he knows exactly what he needs in order to be successful at the World Cup.

“But for Dominic, the same as for every player — if you deliver with consistency, not just for a few games or a few weeks but over months, you have every chance to be involved. For me, he is definitely one of the best English strikers in the Premier League and for him, there is no limit. Of course, there is a chance.”

Calvert-Lewin will look to extend his scoring streak on Saturday evening when Leeds face Crystal Palace, whose demanding schedule has seen them play three matches in six days. Farke believes his striker’s physical condition is improving week by week, but managing workload during this festive run will be essential.

Leeds host Crystal Palace on Saturday evening, where Calvert-Lewin will attempt to continue his outstanding form. With the World Cup approaching and competition for England places intensifying, each performance further shapes his international prospects.

👉 Leeds fans — do you believe Calvert-Lewin should be on the plane to the World Cup if his form continues?