Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer shut down Leeds United star talk amid Aston Villa comparison
The former England strikers have discussed the prospects of one Leeds United star receiving an international call-up.
Leeds United’s recent upturn in form has prompted talk Whites striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin could force his way into contention for a place in the England squad for next summer’s World Cup finals.
The former Everton striker took his time to find his best form after moving to Elland Road on a free transfer during the summer - but there can be no doubt the 28-year-old has hit something of a purple patch in recent weeks after scoring six goals in his last five games. After finding the net against Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Brentford, Calvert-Lewin netted a double in Saturday’s 4-1 home win against Crystal Palace to take his tally to seven goals in 16 appearances in all competitions during the first half of the season.
With Harry Kane firmly established as Thomas Tuchel’s first choice striker ahead of next summer’s tournament in North America, some have suggested Calvert-Lewin could challenge with Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney and Dominic Solanke as alternative options. However, two former Three Lions stars believe talk of a first England call-up in four years is somewhat premature and stressed Calvert-Lewin is behind Aston Villa striker Watkins in the pecking order as it stands.
Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, former Three Lions striker Alan Shearer said: “I heard little bits on Match of the Day last evening, said about Calvert-Lewin and England, what do you think? It’s a bit early, isn’t it? He’s got to do it on a more regular basis.”
Former England captain Gary Lineker replied: “Of course he has, it’s his first good spell for quite some time after a lot of injuries which have taken their toll. We do know there is a very, very good centre-forward in there if he can keep a sustained spell of fitness, but I think at the moment he should be focusing on carrying on doing what he’s doing at present. I mean, England will need a backup 9, but I think Ollie Watkins is way ahead of him at present.”
What has Dominic Calvert-Lewin said about a possible England call-up?
Speaking after Saturday’s win against Crystal Palace, Calvert-Lewin said: "The belief stays the same. The belief I have in myself hasn't changed. I want to give my best for the team and continue playing well. I enjoy having bodies around me. It can be a lonely role up there on your own. With bodies around you, you can link play and I think that's why I've had success recently.
"I don't get carried away (with talk of England). My job remains the same whether I'm scoring or not scoring. I work hard, lead the line for my team and the rest takes care of itself. It's a big result for us. We didn't want to undo our good work over recent weeks. We're taking it game by game and focusing on what we control."