Callum O'Connell

Wed 27 September 2023 18:30, UK

Everton face Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup tonight [27 September], and it could be the perfect opportunity for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to get back to his best after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The English forward made his return from injury last time out against Brentford and scored a goal in the 3-1 victory. He will now be hoping for another opportunity, and another goal, with the cup providing the ideal chance.

Everton shared the statistic via their Twitter account that Calvert-Lewin has scored ten goals in ten appearances in the League Cup, with the competition a happy hunting ground, and he will be hoping to keep up that form.

The striker’s efficiency in this competition, combined with a desire to reach the levels he once showed in an Everton shirt, and a will to prove people wrong in light of his recent injury struggles, mean he should be fired up for this clash and could find his best form once more.

Having worked hard all summer to get fit early in the season, Calvert-Lewin suffered an unfortunate setback with an injury to his eye in the Premier League clash at Villa Park, leading to jibes and jeers from fans.

After the Brentford game in which he scored, he hit back, stating: “When I came off against Aston Villa, my own fans booed me off. Today, they cheered me. I’ll relish this and take the rest with a pinch of salt.” [Liverpool Echo, 23 September]

Now, he could be given the perfect chance to prove doubters wrong once more. If he can continue his average one-goal-per-game performances in this competition, any doubts surrounding his ability will be cast aside.

There’s nothing better in football than a striker with a chip on his shoulder. The determination and drive to prove people wrong should get Calvert-Lewin fired up here, and fans will be excited to see what he has to offer, both against Villa and in the games to follow.

In other Everton news, Andros Townsend has caused confusion over Moshiri’s finances after a radio blunder.