DOMINIC CALVERT-LEWIN OPENS UP ON WHY EVERTON MEANT MORE TO HIM THAN LEEDS AS FARKE COMES FOR MOYES
The striker admits the occasion will feel unusual, returning to face a club he spent eight years with but insists sentiment will wait until the final whistle. Calvert-Lewin joined Everton from Sheffield United in 2016 before departing last summer when his contract expired.
His final seasons at Goodison were disrupted by persistent injury problems, with the forward sidelined for a total of 529 days since the start of the 2021/22 campaign. After leaving the Blues, interest followed from Fiorentina and Sunderland, before he sealed a move to Leeds United in mid-August.
Since arriving at Elland Road, the England international has rediscovered his form. He has already netted nine goals this season and was rewarded with the Premier League Player of the Month award for December. Having never played a competitive match at Everton’s new stadium, Calvert-Lewin is eager to finally experience it this time as an opponent.
Speaking ahead of the clash, he said it would be “strange” lining up against familiar faces, but stressed his focus remains purely on performance. He added that while it will be nice to see former teammates, any reunions will take place after the game, not before.
Calvert-Lewin also highlighted Leeds’ determination to build on the momentum gathered in December, admitting frustration at coming away empty-handed from their recent trip to Newcastle. He emphasised the importance of learning quickly, staying level-headed and maintaining consistency in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Leeds boss Daniel Farke has spoken warmly about Everton and their manager David Moyes, admitting admiration for the club’s structure and ambition. The Whites will be making their first-ever visit to Hill Dickinson Stadium, hoping to extend their progress following last weekend’s dramatic late win over Fulham.
Substitute Lukas Nmecha struck in the 91st minute against Marco Silva’s side to secure a vital three points and help Leeds bounce back from their previous defeat at Newcastle. Although Leeds edged Everton 1-0 in the reverse fixture back in August, Farke expects a far tougher challenge this time around.
The German coach described Everton as a club of huge potential, praising their recruitment, new stadium and Moyes’ tactical discipline. He noted how difficult Moyes’ sides are to break down, especially against the league’s stronger teams, and warned his players they will need to deliver a complete performance.
Farke also reiterated Leeds’ belief in their ability to compete with any side in the division, stressing that while their current points tally is encouraging, the real objective remains survival. With momentum building, he insists the focus is firmly on continuing to collect points and earning their place in the Premier League.
