When Everton signed Dominic Calvert-Lewin, or DCL, from Sheffield United it was seen as a hopeful punt. Under several managers, the striker failed to really show the quality that one would want – he worked hard, but struggled to score on a regular basis. The Evertonian, though, now sits with a whopping 21 goals this season from 36 games in all competitions. Having made his mark at both international level and with his club side, DCL looks set to become a fixture at Premier League level for years to come.
What makes Dominic Calvert-Lewin worth watching?
It is rare that a player works so hard to aggressively bully a defence these days. Clearly, he has worked with Duncan Ferguson behind the scenes to become more assertive and aggressive. DCL is now a bullish forward who can finish with both feet, attack the ball in the air or from a standing position, and get teammates involved.
While he has no assists this year, he does create chances for his teammates and tends to be a threat in live play and from set pieces. While a quality finisher now, it is by no means the only part of his game.
Things to improve for Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Where coach Carlo Ancelotti could do with improving the game of DCL, though, is in his passing. Often, layoffs can go underused due to a lack of finesse in the pass. He can also lose his temper quite easily, and it can lead to needless bookings that then dilute what he can do on and off the ball.
Defensively, too, improvements are needed. Despite working hard to pressure the defence when attacking, he does not make the same effort when trying to get the ball back for Everton. A small change in his passing and his defensive output, though, would put Calvert-Lewin up there with the best in England.