Calvert-Lewin Praises ‘Open-Minded’ Leeds Medical Staff

Key Points

• Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the 28-year-old striker, has praised Leeds United’s medical and sports science staff for their open-minded approach and attention to detail.
• He joined Leeds on a free transfer from Everton in the summer of 2025 and has scored nine league goals this season, his best return since 16 goals in the 2020-21 campaign.
• Calvert-Lewin featured in 21 of Leeds’ 23 league games so far, crediting a holistic self-care routine including nutrition, recovery, and knowledge gained from past injuries.
• He highlighted the staff’s willingness to listen to his input and adapt, contrasting with a “my way or the highway” attitude, fostering a collaborative relationship.
• Becoming a father has calmed him as an athlete and shifted his perspective on football.
• Calvert-Lewin aims to help Leeds stay in the Premier League and harbours hopes of returning to the England squad, where he has 11 caps.
• He spoke positively about teammates James Justin, describing him as chilled and family-oriented, and Ethan Ampadu, a 25-year-old natural leader with team respect.
• The interview was conducted by BBC Sport’s Betty Glover in a wide-ranging discussion on his new life at Leeds.

Leeds (The Leeds Times) January 31, 2026 – Dominic Calvert-Lewin has lauded Leeds United’s medical department for their progressive support as the striker builds an impressive season following his summer move from Everton.

The 28-year-old forward, who endured persistent injuries at his former club, has netted nine league goals this term—his strongest tally since the 2020-21 season when he scored 16 for Everton. Speaking exclusively to BBC Sport, Calvert-Lewin attributed his availability in 21 of Leeds’ 23 league matches to a combination of personal discipline and the club’s expert staff.

Why Has Calvert-Lewin Excelled at Leeds?

As reported by Betty Glover of BBC Sport, Calvert-Lewin explained:

“I would say that it’s probably the, the whole picture. You know, the holistic approach of me, myself care of my body, taking care of my nutrition, putting extra emphasis on recovery and things like that, and just becoming more knowledgeable about all aspects of what it takes to be able to give 100% every week.”

He emphasised self-management honed from injury-plagued years.

Calvert-Lewin then turned praise to the club, stating:

“And then also coming into a club where the sports science staff and the physical staff, they’re fantastic in my opinion, and they pay a lot of attention to detail and the testing that you go through.”

This meticulous approach has suited his needs perfectly.

The striker noted the staff’s flexibility, saying:

“For me, it fits and is obviously working for me. They are very open-minded people. It’s not like ‘my way or the highway’ kind of thing. They’ve allowed me to come in, listen to my side, listen to what works for me and how I can get back to my best physical peak.”

He reciprocated by listening to their professional advice, describing this mutual openness as “the key really.”

How Did Injuries Impact His Everton Career?

Calvert-Lewin was “badly hampered by injuries” during recent seasons at Everton, limiting his consistency. His transfer to Leeds on a free in summer 2025 marked a fresh start, enabling him to showcase his goal-scoring prowess again.

In the same BBC Sport interview with Betty Glover, he detailed personal evolution:

“And I’ve also been open from my side and listening to what they can advise. You know, they’re the professionals.”

This partnership has transformed his fitness.

The move aligns with Leeds’ ambitions under manager Daniel Farke, who prioritises squad depth amid a competitive Premier League survival battle. Calvert-Lewin’s nine goals underline his integration.

What Role Has Fatherhood Played?

In a wide-ranging interview, Calvert-Lewin told BBC Sport’s Betty Glover that becoming a dad has “calmed him as an athlete and changed his views on the game.” This personal milestone has brought perspective, aiding his professional focus.

Fatherhood appears to have instilled maturity, complementing his physical recovery efforts. He balances family life with demands of top-flight football.

Leeds fans have welcomed this mindset shift, seeing it as vital for sustained performance in a grueling season.

Who Are Calvert-Lewin’s Key Teammates at Leeds?

Discussing his new life at Leeds, Calvert-Lewin added:

“I get along really well with James Justin. He’s my type of guy. You know, we sit and drink a coffee together. He’s chilled, a family man.”

Justin, a versatile defender, shares similar values.

He reserved special praise for Ethan Ampadu: “I really like Ethan Ampadu as well. He’s 25 now so he’s on the cusp. But he’s a really good, natural leader. And he has the respect of everybody in the team.” Calvert-Lewin values the Welsh midfielder’s influence.

The striker reflected on his mentorship role: “And me coming into the team. I appreciate that I bring experience, but I’ve just enjoyed trying to help him as much as possible and help him grow as a player and as a person, as my peers did for me at Everton. So my role has changed.” Ampadu, he concluded, is “a top player with a lot of quality, so I can’t say enough good things about him.”

What Are His Goals for Leeds This Season?

Calvert-Lewin’s “focus on helping Leeds stay in the Premier League” is paramount. With the Whites battling relegation pressures, his goals provide crucial firepower.

His availability—missing just two league games—bolsters Farke’s options. Leeds currently sit mid-table, per recent form.

The forward’s contributions extend beyond scoring, fostering team unity.

Could Calvert-Lewin Return to England Duty?

Having earned 11 caps for England, Calvert-Lewin discussed “the potential of featuring for England again.” Injuries stalled his international career post-2021, but this season revives hopes.

Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions squad, post-Gareth Southgate, eyes in-form players. Calvert-Lewin’s nine goals position him as a contender.

He remains pragmatic, prioritising club form.

What Does This Mean for Leeds United?

Calvert-Lewin’s adaptation signals positive momentum for Leeds. The medical team’s reputation grows, attracting talent.

Everton fans reflect on his departure, while Leeds supporters celebrate. His holistic approach exemplifies modern professionalism.

As the season progresses, his praise underscores a cultural fit driving results. Leeds’ survival hinges on such synergies.

Background on Calvert-Lewin’s Career

Dominic Calvert-Lewin rose through Everton’s academy, debuting in 2016. His 2020-21 peak yielded 16 Premier League goals, earning England call-ups.

Subsequent injuries—hamstring, knee issues—curtailed output. The free transfer to Leeds ended a nine-year Everton stint.

At Elland Road, he reunites with Premier League intensity, aiding Leeds’ post-promotion stabilisation.

Broader Context in the Premier League

Leeds’ 2025 promotion via Championship playoffs set high stakes. Calvert-Lewin’s signing addressed striker needs post-midseason struggles.

Rivals like Ipswich and Leicester face similar battles. His form could define Leeds’ fate.

The sports science emphasis reflects EFL-to-Premier League transitions, where fitness is king.