I Led the Line Through Everton’s Toughest Premier League Battles

Among the many 'last ever' occasions at Goodison Park that are evoking mixed emotions among the Everton fanbase, there is a scenario where Blues supporters could also be saying goodbye to a striker with almost a decade's loyal service.

There's been so much going on - again - at Everton this campaign that the future of Dominic Calvert-Lewin has perhaps gone under the radar.

The 28-year-old has been at Everton since 2016, joining the club for £1.5m from Sheffield United, and has scored 57 Premier League goals in 235 appearances.

His most prolific season was 2020-21 when he scored 21 goals in 39 games in all competitions and was part of the England squad that reached the Euros final that summer.

Nevertheless, after that campaign, Calvert-Lewin has found it difficult to reproduce his outstanding performances due to poor form and injuries. He hasn’t received an England call-up since 2021.

Additionally, he has maintained a prominent presence outside of sports through honest discussions regarding his mental well-being and featuring on the main covers of leading fashion publications.

As Calvert-Lewin nears the final stretch of his contract, he shares with The News PulseSport his desire to return to action at Goodison Park before the end of this season. He also discusses the challenge of taking up the role of Everton’s striker during what has been noted as some of the most challenging Premier League campaigns in the club’s recent memory.

Aiming for the decisive match at Goodison Park

Calvert-Lewin characterizes a campaign featuring merely three goals across just 22 Premier League matches as "mixed." This assessment reflects the improvement following manager David Moyes' arrival in January, which stood in stark contrast to his subsequent hamstring injury during the match against Brighton later that same month.

The Everton forward with jersey number nine hasn't played since then, however, he is gradually regaining his fitness and is nearing a complete comeback to both training sessions and match selections.

"I was fit for 18 months before this injury, and I was going pretty well in playing games and the consistency of playing," he says.

"Physically I feel the best I have ever felt. I have worked hard as I always do to get myself right and in the best condition possible."

Everton are moving to their new stadium in the Bramley-Moore Dock at the end of this season and that is an added motivation for Calvert-Lewin.

Calvert-Lewin states, "That has always been my motivation since the moment I realized I would be sidelined for some time. My aim is to return in time for at least the final match at Goodison."

I have countless wonderful recollections from there and it played a huge role in my upbringing.

I really want another chance to play at Goodison and soak up the atmosphere of that final match there once more.

Family and soccer come before style - at least for now.

The attacker from Everton has discussed the toll that constant injuries took on his psychological well-being, particularly towards the conclusion of the 2021-22 campaign. mentioned that speaking up saved him.

He believes that previous failures have instilled him with "wisdom and character," and he mentions that recently becoming a dad has altered his viewpoint.

"Throughout my career, I've faced several challenges due to injuries and difficult times. Being older and more mature, and now a father, has provided me with new perspectives and stability in ways I could not have imagined before," explains Calvert-Lewin.

The forward is equally recognized for his involvement in fashion and has featured on magazine covers and participated in photo sessions for GQ Magazine - even though the new dad suggests those times might be over for him.

Being a family person now with a young daughter has transformed my life significantly," states Calvert-Lewin. "This new role has provided me with fresh viewpoints.

I am dedicated to becoming the finest player I can be and also striving to be the most exceptional father possible.

I believe when it comes to fashion, just as with everything else, one grows and evolves, and at that time, it was intriguing for me to demonstrate this progression.

All individuals have pastimes and additional passions outside of their daily routines.

I simply don’t have the time to ponder over my outfit choices in the mornings since my daughter has to prepare herself!

About his future and Everton's 'toughest three seasons'

Everton fans will be eager to find out whether the forward will continue being part of their team for the upcoming season.

Calvert-Lewin is among several players at Everton whose futures are currently being debated. News PulseSport has mentioned that an offer is currently being presented. When questioned about his circumstances, he thinks to himself that matters are straightforward.

"I'm an Everton player and my focus will always be on doing my best for Everton and I have a lot of respect for Everton football club," he says.

What I possess now is all due to this.

My primary objective is ensuring I'm in top form, similar to undergoing a brief preseason training to prepare for these final four matches.

Under the guidance of the new manager, the club is heading in the correct path; with plans for a new stadium and numerous reasons to stay optimistic.

Who would not wish to be a part of such an opportunity?

For quite some time, there has been significant uncertainty, particularly at higher levels, and many would argue that the past three seasons have represented the toughest period in Everton's Premier League era. Throughout this challenging time, I was playing upfront for the team.

It has helped me gain a great deal of experience, and I cherish many wonderful memories. Everton will forever hold a special place in my heart, so let’s wait and see what the future brings.

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