Dominic Calvert-Lewin has put himself in contention for an England recall with a string of impressive performances for Leeds United. His manager Daniel Farke has publicly backed the striker's case ahead of Thomas Tuchel's squad announcement for Nations League games against Spain and the Czech Republic.

Farke described the 29-year-old as a constant threat after he helped Leeds to a 4-1 win over Newcastle United. "He's a handful and tough for each and every defender," Farke said. "He's difficult to play against. He's at a top fitness level." The forward was involved in two goals and received a standing ovation when substituted late on.

Form and fitness

Calvert-Lewin has scored three goals in his last four Premier League games, making him the division's leading English striker. His recent run includes scoring in five consecutive home appearances at Elland Road, a feat only Mark Viduka had previously achieved for Leeds. Farke believes the player's consistent run in a strong team is key. "He plays with confidence and a good rhythm," the manager added, stating Calvert-Lewin is "one of the best strikers in this league" when in this form.

Former England defender Jamie Carragher was also impressed, calling his latest display "unplayable". "Maybe sometimes composure has let him down in his career, but not here," Carragher observed.

International context

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has monitored Calvert-Lewin in recent months. The striker earned a call-up in March after his debut season at Leeds, featuring against Uruguay, but missed out on the summer's World Cup squad where Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins deputised for captain Harry Kane.

Tuchel names his next squad on Friday, with England sitting top of their World Cup qualifying group. They have seven points from three games, leading Croatia by a single point. Their recent form shows four wins from the last five matches, including a 6-4 victory over France in July.

Leeds' strong platform

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence is built on a solid team foundation. Leeds have taken 35 Premier League points in 2026, a tally bettered by only four clubs. They have lost just once in their past 13 league outings. This collective strength, Farke argues, allows his striker to thrive. "He benefits from a strong team around him," the manager noted.

For Newcastle, the defeat was a reality check after an unbeaten start under new boss Matthias Jaissle. Jaissle said his side failed to match Leeds' intensity, conceding three goals in a 14-minute first-half spell. "This is non-negotiable," he said of the required physicality. "These are young lads. The learning curve needs to be fast."

Calvert-Lewin will hope his club form is enough to force his way back into an England attack currently led by Jude Bellingham, the national team's top scorer this season with seven goals. The final decision rests with Tuchel ahead of the key Nations League double-header.

This story first appeared at BBC Sport Football