Dominic Calvert-Lewin in form for Leeds under Farke

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has found his scoring boots again at Leeds United, and Daniel Farke deserves credit for the transformation.

The England striker joined Leeds on loan from Everton in January, and many fans had doubts about whether he could still deliver at Championship level. Those doubts have been answered emphatically.

Calvert-Lewin has scored six goals in his last eight appearances for Leeds. His movement in the box has improved dramatically, and his confidence is back.

Farke’s tactical switch makes the difference

Daniel Farke changed his system specifically to get the best from Calvert-Lewin. The German manager now plays with more direct passes into the striker’s feet, rather than the possession-based build-up Leeds fans had grown used to.

This adjustment suits Calvert-Lewin perfectly. He thrives on early service and physical battles with centre-backs. Farke recognised this strength and adapted his tactics accordingly.

Leeds now play longer balls more frequently. The wingers stay wider to stretch defences. This creates more space for Calvert-Lewin to attack crosses and through balls.

Physical condition playing a part

The striker’s fitness levels have clearly improved since his arrival at Elland Road. At Everton, injuries plagued his final 18 months at the club. He managed just nine Premier League starts last season.

Leeds’ medical team worked closely with Calvert-Lewin during his first month at the club. They focused on strengthening exercises and managing his workload carefully.

The results show in his performances. Calvert-Lewin wins more aerial duels than any other striker in the Championship. He completes full 90-minute shifts regularly now.

His hold-up play has returned to the levels we saw when he earned his England caps back in 2020 and 2021.

Support from teammates crucial

The service Calvert-Lewin receives from his teammates has been excellent. Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto provide quality crosses from wide positions. Georginio Rutter drops deep to link play effectively.

This attacking unit has developed strong understanding in recent weeks. They know when Calvert-Lewin wants the ball played into his path versus when he needs it at his feet.

The striker’s partnership with Rutter has been particularly productive. The pair combined for three goals in the last four matches.

What this means for Leeds’ promotion push

Leeds sit second in the Championship table, and Calvert-Lewin’s goals have been vital to their position. The club needs a proven goalscorer if they want automatic promotion back to the Premier League.

His experience at the top level gives Leeds an advantage over other promotion rivals. He knows what it takes to succeed in high-pressure matches.

Farke’s willingness to adjust his philosophy shows strong management. Not every coach would change their preferred style to accommodate one player.

The road ahead

Calvert-Lewin’s loan deal runs until the end of the season. Leeds fans will hope he can maintain this scoring run through the crucial spring months.

The striker faces tough tests ahead. Championship defences will study his game more carefully now that he’s in form. They’ll try different approaches to stop his aerial threat.

But if Farke continues to provide the right service and tactical setup, there’s no reason why Calvert-Lewin can’t add another 10 goals before May.

His revival at Leeds proves that sometimes a player just needs the right environment and the right manager to rediscover their best form. Daniel Farke has provided exactly that.