Dominic Calvert Lewis
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s remarkable scoring streak continued as he netted twice in Leeds United’s commanding 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday. The 28-year-old striker has now scored in five consecutive top-flight matches, a feat last achieved by a Leeds player, Mark Viduka, in 2003. Calvert-Lewin’s performance has solidified his status as one of Europe’s most in-form strikers, having joined Leeds as a free agent last summer.
Daniel Farke said: “I have made my feelings clear that he is one of the best English strikers in this league. Quality players have to show consistency and play an outstanding season. The season is not finished, he wants to score many more goals. We are all happy we have him with us but he has to keep going.”
Farke added: “He has shown this during his career when he is fit but to label him a top-class player for Leeds United. He doesn’t have to show this for a couple of weeks or months, he has to show it over the whole course of the season.”
Farke continued: “We have played the best away team in the league. I was always nervous until the last second. It’s football, sometimes strange things happen. Crystal Palace are so difficult to play against but in the end, it was so, so enjoyable for us. Sometimes you need a bit of luck but we know set-pieces are also a strength of ours. We missed a few chances so I would perhaps want a few more, and the clean sheet would have been nice.”
On Ethan Ampadu, Farke told BBC Sport: “He definitely has no striker instincts, believe me, I see him every day in training! But about him, we can sing his praises, he has for such a long time delivered on a daily basis, a weekly basis. He has developed into a leader and a top player. One of our key players, if not the most important player, he is my captain. He is in the heart of the game, he is fantastic.”
Calvert-Lewin’s arrival at Leeds has been nothing short of transformative, providing the team with a reliable goal-scoring option. His ability to find the back of the net consistently has been a significant factor in Leeds’ recent success. Meanwhile, manager Daniel Farke has expressed his delight with the striker’s contributions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this level of performance throughout the season.
Leeds’ victory over Crystal Palace was not only a testament to Calvert-Lewin’s prowess but also highlighted the team’s overall strength. Despite a crammed schedule, Leeds managed to field a competitive side, with Ethan Ampadu also making headlines by scoring his first Premier League goal. Farke’s tactical acumen and the team’s resilience were evident as they navigated the challenges posed by a formidable Crystal Palace side.
As the season progresses, Leeds United will be keen to build on this momentum, with Calvert-Lewin leading the charge. His form will be crucial in determining the club’s fortunes as they aim for a strong finish in the league.