Dominic Calvert-Lewin's 'difficult position' as Leeds United star opens up on Harry Kane competition

Dominic Calvert-Lewin admits he’s in a ‘difficult position’ competing for England minutes with Harry Kane - but the Leeds United striker knows exactly what he can offer.

Calvert-Lewin has returned to the England squad for the second time this season, joining Leeds teammate James Trafford in camp ahead of games against Spain and Croatia. The striker will be hoping to add to his 14 caps but any minutes will be limited.

During the previous four-game break, Calvert-Lewin played just 17 minutes. It doesn’t help that he’s competing for opportunities with last month’s Ballon d’Or winner, Harry Kane, but the Leeds man is confident he can contribute when called upon.

“His record speaks for itself. He’s a fantastic player,” Calvert-Lewin told PA of Kane. “He’s the captain of the country and he leads by example.

“I think he’s deserving of his accolades at the moment. And on a personal note, being a centre forward in competition for that place, it’s a difficult position to be in.

“I think when I come away on England camps now, I think I have to be just as prepared as possible and ready for when my own personal opportunity comes, if and when needed. I suppose it’s somewhat an audition, but it’s what I do every week that is what will warrant a call-up.

“Obviously you then get a chance to shine in an England shirt. With age, I know what my strengths are and I know what I’m good at. Showcasing that on a weekly basis with Leeds, it’s down to Thomas if he wants to pick me or not.”

Few in world football can compete with Kane on a technical level, with the 33-year-old’s all-round game only improving since his move to Bayern Munich in 2023. This season, the striker is already on 10 goals and 11 assists for the German side while also scoring six times in four appearances for England.

Calvert-Lewin has enjoyed his own positive start to the campaign at club-level, scoring five goals in 12 games across all competitions. The physical frontman also knows he offers a point of difference to the free-roaming Kane.

“We’re both very different in the way we play,” he added. “His mentality is very strong. We’re similar in that sense. We’re both very strong in how we want to play.

“His finishing quality, his overall quality and leadership is something I appreciate. Removing our own personal competition, striker watching another striker, he’s one of the best in the world and you cannot argue with that.”