Everton may already have their extra striker
By Paul Taylor
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin continuing to improve with every appearance, Everton might not need to spend any more money in their search for another forward.
In recent weeks, we’ve been keeping track of Ronald Koeman’s search for another striking option, to provide more depth up front. However, is it possible the Everton manager no longer needs to continue this search?
Through three friendlies and two Europa League games, one of the shining lights for the Blues, has been Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Right from the word go versus Gor Mahia, he has played well and made people sit up and take notice.
The question is, has Calvert-Lewin done enough, to convince Koeman he does not need to sign another forward, before the close of the summer transfer window? Certainly, the forward is making a good case for himself.
BBC Sport recently predicted big things for the 20-year-old, giving him a 80 percent chance of playing first-team football this season. This isn’t exactly the most outrageous prediction in the world, given the fact he appeared in 11 Premier League games during the 2016/17 campaign, but we get the point.
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One of the most impressive things about Calvert-Lewin, is his innate ability to step up in big moments. Look no further than his winning goal for England in June, in the Under-20 World Cup final versus Venezuela.
Another example was scoring Everton’s only goal in Thursday’s 1-0 win in the Europa League second leg clash with Ruzomberok. You cannot manufacture this type of poise under pressure – you either have it or you don’t.
Obviously, the Blues were hoping for this type of return from Calvert-Lewin, when they signed him from Sheffield last summer for £1.5 million. He has been described as a special talent, who is equally effective with his feet and his head.
As for the youngster himself, he is enjoying his new-found fame, while also finding it all a bit surreal. However, despite starting to get recognised on the streets, he is doing his best to take it all in stride.
Calvert-Lewin spoke to the Daily Star‘s Chris McKenna about the recognition he has received recently. He said:
"“It’s still one of those strange feelings to think that I have scored in a World Cup final. It’s a moment that will live with me forever. I know I am in very select company.“With scoring a goal of that importance, there comes a lot of, I won’t say there is expectation but people are more aware of who I am.”"
Calvert-Lewin strikes you as the type of player who can handle all the expectations. Whether that is enough to convince Koeman to call off his search for another forward remains to be seen, but the future is bright for the Sheffield-born young star.
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What is your take on Calvert-Lewin? Does he have what it takes to be a viable option up front, or should the Blues continue their search for another forward? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.