Is Calvert-Lewin a Must-Have for Your FPL Team?

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has made a significant impact since joining Leeds United in August, particularly in the recent Premier League season. With seven goals in the last six matches, he has emerged as a crucial player for both Leeds and Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers. This article explores his performance trends, implications for his England prospects, and considerations for FPL managers contemplating a transfer.

Last updated: 08 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s recent resurgence has placed him firmly in the spotlight, especially after his latest goal against Sunderland. With Leeds United climbing to 16th in the Premier League following an unbeaten streak of five games, his contributions have become increasingly vital. His scoring form has not only elevated Leeds' position but has also made him a potential target for Fantasy Premier League managers looking for value.

Key takeaways

Calvert-Lewin has scored seven goals in his last six matches.
His FPL price has increased from £5.5m to £5.8m, yet he remains a differential in only 8.8% of teams.
Leeds are unbeaten in five games, significantly improving their league standing.
Calvert-Lewin ranks highly in key metrics such as shots on target and expected goals (xG).
Injury history raises concerns, but his current form suggests sustainability.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of Dominic Calvert-Lewin at Leeds United can be traced through a series of significant events:

August 2023: Calvert-Lewin joins Leeds United from Everton.
September 2023: He struggles initially, scoring just once in his first ten games.
November 2023: Following a return to form, he scores seven goals in six games, dramatically improving his FPL value and Leeds' performance.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Calvert-Lewin's recent goal-scoring streak has established him as a key player for Leeds, showcasing his ability to convert chances and take penalties. His performance metrics suggest a remarkable turnaround in form that could have implications for his selection by England's national team manager, Thomas Tuchel.

What was already established

Previously, Calvert-Lewin was known for his potential and goal-scoring ability during his tenure at Everton. However, injuries limited his appearances and effectiveness, raising doubts about his reliability as a Fantasy Premier League asset. His move to Leeds was seen as a chance for rejuvenation, with early-season struggles making it difficult for him to break into the scoring charts.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence not only uplifts Leeds United's morale but also energises the city and its fanbase. A successful Leeds could lead to increased local business for pubs, shops, and hospitality venues that thrive on matchday footfall, particularly as they strive to avoid relegation.

Businesses and jobs

For Leeds United, maintaining Premier League status is crucial for financial stability, including broadcasting revenues and sponsorship deals. Calvert-Lewin's performance can significantly impact club revenues and job security for staff and associated businesses in the region.

Policy and regulation

In the wider context, a strong performance from Calvert-Lewin and Leeds may influence discussions around funding and support for teams in the Premier League, especially as clubs navigate financial challenges post-pandemic. It could also encourage investment in youth development and player health management to mitigate injury risks.

Numbers that matter

7: Goals scored by Calvert-Lewin in his last six matches.
8: Shots on target, ranking him fifth in the league during this period.
14: Total shots in the box, placing him fourth overall.
7: Big chances created, ranking second among all players.
xG of 4.36: Highest expected goals among Premier League players over the last six games.

Definitions and jargon buster

FPL: Fantasy Premier League, a virtual game where players create teams based on real-life footballers.
xG: Expected Goals, a metric that estimates the likelihood of a goal being scored from a particular shot.
Differential: A player selected by a lower percentage of teams, offering potential for higher returns.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

FPL managers should monitor Calvert-Lewin's fitness and performance closely, especially leading up to Gameweek 19. His recent form indicates he could deliver points against tough opponents.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If Calvert-Lewin maintains his fitness and form, he could become a staple in many FPL teams, especially as the season progresses into a busy winter schedule.

Signals to watch

Ongoing fitness reports regarding any potential injuries.
Performance against high-profile teams like Liverpool and Manchester United.
Trends in FPL ownership and price changes.

Practical guidance

Do

Consider adding Calvert-Lewin to your FPL team if you need a budget-friendly forward option.
Keep an eye on fixture difficulties, especially against stronger teams.

Don’t

Overlook his injury history when making transfer decisions.
Assume that his current scoring form will automatically continue.

Checklist

Check Calvert-Lewin's fitness updates before Gameweek 19.
Review Leeds' upcoming fixtures for potential point returns.
Monitor FPL community discussions regarding his performance and transfer viability.
Evaluate your current squad's balance before making a transfer decision.
Consider any budget constraints when making player additions.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Calvert-Lewin's current form is promising, his injury history remains a significant concern for both Leeds and FPL managers. Additionally, the upcoming fixtures against top teams may pose challenges that could affect his scoring opportunities. As such, it's essential to stay updated with fitness reports and team news to make informed decisions.

Bottom line

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's impressive return to form at Leeds makes him a compelling option for Fantasy Premier League players seeking a reliable forward. However, his history of injuries and challenging fixtures should be weighed carefully. With the right monitoring, he could be a valuable addition to many FPL teams.

FAQs

Is Dominic Calvert-Lewin a good pick for Fantasy Premier League?

Yes, given his recent scoring form, Calvert-Lewin is a strong option for FPL, especially if you are looking for a budget-friendly forward.

How has Calvert-Lewin's injury history affected his performance?

Calvert-Lewin's past injuries have limited his appearances and effectiveness in previous seasons, raising concerns among FPL managers.

What upcoming fixtures should FPL managers consider for Calvert-Lewin?

Leeds will face challenging matches against Liverpool and Manchester United, but Calvert-Lewin has shown he can score in difficult fixtures.