Dominic Calvert-Lewin is not the player Everton can rely on to steer clear of relegation this season, according to Gary Lineker.
The 27-year-old was once again under scrutiny at Goodison Park after missing a crucial chance to salvage a point in Everton’s 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on January 15.
Manager David Moyes’ visible frustration summed up the club’s ongoing struggles in attack.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast (January 17, 17:21), Lineker shared his doubts about Calvert-Lewin’s ability to deliver consistently, even amid reported interest in the striker during the January transfer window.
Lineker on Calvert-Lewin’s shortcomings:
“It’s hard to know. I suppose if you look back at his career there’s been a decent season or two. He’s got all the attributes [but], he’s not a clean finisher and that for a striker is an issue. He’s never going to be a 20/25 goals a season player even in a side that’s really attacking and has got creative players. I think in the end in football, you find your level,” Lineker said.
Time for Everton to move on?
Calvert-Lewin’s performances have been underwhelming this season, with only two goals in 20 Premier League appearances. The numbers tell a stark story, and it’s becoming harder to justify his place as Everton’s primary striker.
Despite rumors of interest from Serie A clubs, no formal offers have materialized. Yet, reports suggest Everton are optimistic about securing a contract extension for the striker following the departure of Sean Dyche, according to Graeme Bailey.
The situation is further complicated by Armando Broja’s injury and speculation about Beto leaving Goodison Park. However, given Calvert-Lewin’s track record, Everton’s pursuit of a contract renewal seems misplaced.
The striker has not hit double-digit Premier League goals since the 2020/21 season and has managed this milestone only twice during his eight-and-a-half-year tenure at the club.
He has never been the prolific 20-goal-a-season forward Everton desperately need and has shown no signs of becoming one.
Everton’s next move:
While the January transfer window offers limited opportunities to find elite attacking talent, Everton must resist the urge to tie Calvert-Lewin down to a long-term deal unless it is with the intent to sell him for a profit in the summer.
If the Toffees fail to secure a forward capable of significantly improving their attacking output, they risk repeating the same mistakes. Calvert-Lewin’s time at Goodison Park appears to have run its course, and Everton must look elsewhere to solve their goalscoring woes.