Dublin: Calvert-Lewin ‘brings something’ unique to England squad
Dion Dublin has tipped Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin to be included in England’s squad for this summer’s European Championships, praising his power and aerial prowess.
The 24-year was on target twice for England against San Marino in their World Cup qualifying clash on Wednesday, where the Three Lions waltzed to a comfortable 5-0 victory.
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins also scored against San Marino, who rank 210th out of 210 nations in the FIFA world rankings, for a goal on his international debut.
Talking on BBC’s Football Focus on Saturday afternoon, former Aston Villa forward Dublin and host Dan Walker discussed England’s options ahead of this summer’s tournament.
Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling were named as certainties to be included, and when discussing options for the additional two forward slots, Dublin explained that Calvert-Lewin has something that ‘no other’ player does.
After Walker asked who Dublin would pick, the pundit said: “I don’t really know to be honest with you and I think Gareth Southgate is happy with the headache.
“But he’s going to have leave people out, and he’s going to have to disappoint so many players.
“Ollie Watkins scored on his debut, so he’s now got to go really, and Calvert-Lewin with what he brings to a game.
“I think Calvert-Lewin brings something to that centre forward situation that no other centre forward in that crop of forwards you’re talking about does, with his power and his aerial prowess.
“There are so many good players there.”
Unique attributes
It would be a huge shock if Calvert-Lewin wasn’t selected by England this summer.
Not only does the Everton forward offer something different to both Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford, but his goalscoring record this season alone speaks for itself.
Calvert-Lewin has brought power and aerial prowess to his game, true, but that isn’t the total sum of his abilities.
The 24-year old has routinely displayed a quick turn of pace and excellent hold up play for Everton, and though his clinical edge could do with being slightly sharper, his ability to score important goals for his club could easily translate to the international stage.
It remains to be seen whether he’d have any real contribution during the tournament, because Harry Kane won’t be replaced for obviously reasons, but if injury strikes or if Southgate decides he needs to change things up, Calvert-Lewin is certainly someone who the Three Lions could come to rely upon to provide when needed.
In other Everton news, Dutch legend Ruud Gullit has blamed Everton for mishandling Davy Klaassen during his time at the club.