Dominic Calvert-Lewin Eyes Senior England Glory After Under-20 World Cup Triumph
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has opened up about his ambition to achieve further international success with England, reflecting on his historic Under-20 World Cup triumph and the prospect of lifting a major trophy with the senior national team.
Speaking during an England press conference attended by Benchviews Sports TV, the Leeds United striker discussed the lasting memories of winning the 2017 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, his journey back into the national team and the importance of experience within the current England squad.
Calvert-Lewin, who scored the winning goal in England’s 1-0 victory over Venezuela in the 2017 final, believes the bonds created through international success remain special almost a decade later.
Calvert-Lewin Reflects on England’s Under-20 World Cup Triumph
During the press conference, Benchviews Sports TV reporter Daniel Adu-Mensah asked Calvert-Lewin what it would mean to repeat his Under-20 World Cup success by winning a European Championship or World Cup with England’s senior team.
Reflecting on that historic achievement, the striker said:
“Winning the Under-20 World Cup was an amazing feeling and something that I look very fondly back on.”
Calvert-Lewin explained that the memories of that tournament remain significant, particularly because of the relationships formed with his teammates.
Almost ten years after lifting the trophy, he revealed that those who shared the experience still carry the memories and connections created during their success.
Turning his attention to the possibility of winning a major senior international tournament, Calvert-Lewin admitted that such an achievement would be difficult to describe.
“I don’t think there’s words that can really put it into words that can do it justice of how that would feel for us.”
For a player who has already experienced the pride of winning a World Cup in an England shirt, the opportunity to achieve similar success at senior level represents another major ambition.
English Players Abroad Bringing New Experiences to the National Team
Daniel also questioned Calvert-Lewin about the increasing number of England internationals playing their club football overseas and the influence their experiences could have on the national team.
With players such as Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane competing at major European clubs, the striker believes England are benefiting from having players exposed to different footballing environments.
Calvert-Lewin said:
“I think the fact that we’ve got top-level English players playing abroad now at top European clubs, I think it’s only good for English football and us as a national team.”
He explained that players competing overseas bring valuable knowledge and different experiences into the England dressing room, contributing to the development of the wider squad.
The Leeds forward also highlighted how these experiences can improve players’ confidence and overall performances.
“They’re only growing in confidence and as players, and I think it’s only a positive thing.”
His comments underline the potential benefits of England having a squad made up of players competing across different leagues and footballing cultures.
Leeds United Move Key to England Resurgence
Calvert-Lewin also reflected on his personal journey back into the international setup following challenging periods in his career.
After experiencing injury setbacks and difficulties maintaining consistent playing time during his Everton career, the striker believes joining Leeds United provided the environment he needed to rediscover his confidence.
He credited manager Daniel Farke with playing an important role in his decision to join the Yorkshire club, explaining that their early conversations convinced him Leeds was the right place to rebuild his career.
Calvert-Lewin also emphasised the importance of discipline, consistent training habits and maintaining belief in his abilities.
Despite the challenges he has faced, he insisted that his ambition to return to the highest level never disappeared.
Competing with Harry Kane for England
With Harry Kane continuing to lead England’s attack, Calvert-Lewin understands the challenge of securing regular international opportunities.
However, he believes his physical attributes and playing style offer Thomas Tuchel a different attacking option.
The Leeds striker highlighted his ability to hold up possession, provide an aerial threat and influence games when England require a more direct approach.
He also praised Kane’s mentality, leadership and finishing ability, acknowledging the England captain’s status among the world’s leading forwards.
For Calvert-Lewin, the priority remains performing consistently at club level and ensuring he is ready whenever opportunities arise with England.
A Message to England’s Next Generation
Calvert-Lewin also offered advice to Fulham youngster Josh King, who is experiencing his first senior England call-up.
Drawing on his own experiences, the striker encouraged King to appreciate the opportunity while understanding that success in professional football is rarely straightforward.
He emphasised the importance of resilience, dedication and developing consistent habits throughout a player’s career.
Having experienced both international success and difficult periods at club level, Calvert-Lewin believes maintaining the right mentality is essential to achieving long-term success.
England’s Ambition to Deliver International Success
Calvert-Lewin believes there is a strong desire within the England squad to achieve success and make the nation proud.
He praised the quality of the players around him and the clarity of Thomas Tuchel’s tactical instructions, highlighting the importance of every player understanding their responsibilities.
With a mixture of experienced internationals, emerging young talent and players competing across Europe’s leading leagues, England have a squad determined to challenge for major honours.
For Calvert-Lewin, the memories of winning the Under-20 World Cup in 2017 remain a reminder of what can be achieved when a talented group comes together.
Now back in the senior international picture, the Leeds United forward hopes to experience that winning feeling once again, this time on football’s biggest stage.
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