‘The young striker knows how to find the net’ – Former Leeds United manager Peter Reid has highlighted three key strengths of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, explaining why the powerful forward is such a pleasure to watch. After years of fitness struggles, the 29-year-old left those worries behind last season, rewarding the faith shown in him by those at Elland Road.
Calvert-Lewin’s record: Goals for Everton and Leeds
The England international parted ways with Everton as a free agent after his contract expired, ending a nine-year spell on Merseyside. During his time with the Toffees, he scored 71 goals in 273 appearances.
Between 2018 and 2021, he consistently featured in around 40 matches per season. However, over the next four campaigns, he managed to surpass 30 appearances only once. His output in the Premier League also dipped, failing to reach double figures in goals after achieving that milestone in back-to-back seasons when he was at his physical peak.
In the 2025–26 campaign, Calvert-Lewin rediscovered his rhythm. Despite doubts about his ability to stay fit for a full season, he played 39 matches across all competitions, scoring 15 goals—14 of which came in the Premier League.
His contributions were central to Leeds United’s successful battle for survival in their first season back in the top flight. In addition, he earned an England recall, five years after his last appearance for the national team.
Calvert-Lewin’s biggest strengths at Leeds
Everton legend Peter Reid, who managed Leeds for 22 games in 2003, has been impressed by Calvert-Lewin’s resurgence. Reid said he always believed the dynamic No.9 could regain his best form.
Speaking at the world’s largest World Cup-themed auction organised by BUDDS, the UK’s leading sports memorabilia auctioneers, Reid told GOAL when asked about Calvert-Lewin’s post-Everton revival: “He just couldn’t stay on the pitch before. Whatever you say, the kid can score goals. He’s constantly moving around the box, always looking for space, always on the defender’s shoulder—I like those strikers, six yards out, boom, goal. Calvert-Lewin is exactly that.”
Reid added, “He’s had an absolutely fantastic season. Credit to another one of my former clubs—they’ve been outstanding. It’s fascinating how things work out. I’m really looking forward to what comes next.”
Leeds’ smart business in the 2025 transfer market
Calvert-Lewin was arguably Leeds’ standout signing in 2025, joining on a free transfer following their promotion from the Championship. The club made several other shrewd deals, with players like Gabriel Gudmundsson, Jaka Bijol, Anton Stach, and Sean Langstaff all impressing in their debut seasons.
Leeds maintained financial discipline despite their promotion, but may need to invest more heavily in 2026 to compete with wealthier Premier League rivals. When asked about this, Reid commented, “They had a tricky start, didn’t they? Daniel Farke changed his formation, and it worked brilliantly. Excellent management.”
He continued, “The fan base at Leeds is fantastic. The supporters embraced the project, and so did the players. I keep saying it, but recruitment is absolutely key. Just look at how well clubs like Brighton and Bournemouth have done with their scouting—it’s truly impressive.”
Leeds’ 2026–27 Premier League fixtures
Leeds United will begin their 2026–27 Premier League campaign with an away fixture at the City Ground against Nottingham Forest. A strong start will be crucial, with fans eager to see Calvert-Lewin continue his fine form and further cement his place as a key figure within the squad.
As Leeds’ profile continues to grow, so too does interest in club memorabilia. Several fascinating items are set to go under the hammer, including Pelé’s gold medal from the 1958 World Cup and match-worn shirts from Alan Ball and Martin Peters from the 1966 final.
The BUDDS World Cup Auction is scheduled for 25 June 2026, with an online timed auction beginning on 2 June. For more information or to receive a free online valuation for any sports memorabilia, visit the official website.
