Everton manager Frank Lampard ‘will be desperate’ for star striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin to return to form in the final months of the season, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
Calvert-Lewin has struggled for form and fitness throughout 2021/22, but he could still play a big part in the Toffees’ fortunes between now and the end of May.
What is the latest news involving Calvert-Lewin?
The England international – who is valued at £40.5m by Transfermarkt – had established himself as Everton’s talisman over the last couple of campaigns.
Teammate Richarlison is evidently one of Calvert-Lewin’s admirers, even comparing his aerial ability to five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
“He must be a nightmare to play against, and he has an incredible leap on him like Cristiano Ronaldo,” said the Brazilian back in 2020.
However, Calvert-Lewin has been unable to make a significant contribution to the Goodison Park outfit this term, failing to find the back of the net since 28 August.
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After bagging a single goal in each of Everton’s opening three Premier League encounters, a series of quadricep problems ruled him out of action until the new year.
But Calvert-Lewin has looked a shadow of his former self upon his return and has now gone eight appearances in all competitions without scoring.
What has O’Rourke said about Calvert-Lewin?
Everton moved three points clear of the relegation zone with a dramatic victory over Newcastle United on Thursday, with Calvert-Lewin providing a clever assist.
But O’Rourke believes Lampard will be eager for his first-choice forward to start chipping in with goals once again as he looks to guide the Merseysiders to safety.
He told GiveMeSport: “For these last few weeks of the season, I think Frank Lampard will be desperate for a fit and firing Calvert-Lewin because Everton really need him to get back to fitness and sort of lead the line and get some goals for them.”
Can Everton avoid relegation?
Everton’s chances of survival were increased considerably thanks to Alex Iwobi’s injury-time winner against the Magpies, yet there is still plenty to play for between now and the end of the season.
Much could depend on the outcome of their intriguing fixture against 19th-placed Burnley on 6 April, with Sean Dyche’s charges sitting just four points behind the Blues in the top-flight standings.
With several games in hand over many of their rivals, though, Everton will surely remain hopeful of maintaining their Premier League status, especially if Calvert-Lewin can return to form.