"It’s somewhat an audition" - Calvert-Lewin on his England return

SNTV
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Nov 10, 2026
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It means everything. I think for me as a young boy dreaming
of playing for England and representing my country,
to be here now, it's a very proud thing
and something I'm very grateful for.
I think when I experienced it for the first time six years ago,
and then to have so much time in between that,
it's made me appreciate it even more, you know, being here today.
I suppose it's somewhat an audition,
but ultimately it's what I do week in, week out for Leeds
and the quality that I show for Leeds
that's going to warrant a call-up.
Obviously, then you get the opportunity to shine in an England shirt,
which is the most important thing when you're here.
But I think with age I've realised I know what my strengths are,
I know what I'm good at.
So if I continue to showcase that on a weekly basis for Leeds,
then it's down to Thomas
if he wants to pick me up.
His record speaks for itself. He's a fantastic player.
He's the captain of the country and he leads by example.
And I think he's deserving of his accolades at the moment.
And on a personal note,
being centre-forward in competition for that place,
it's a difficult position to be in.
So I think when I come away on England camps now,
you know, I think I have to be as prepared
as possible and ready for when
my own personal opportunity comes and when needed.
You know, maybe a handful
of players can maintain outstanding levels of performance season on
season and I've had my own fair share of setbacks
which everyone's aware of and it's been there
for everybody to see.
So for me, I knew that a change in environment
was what I needed joining Leeds United and
when I spoke to the club,
I knew it was the right place for me and the right place to
reignite my career.
I think in times of hardship, I just never stopped
believing that I would get back to this level.
And I knew my capabilities and qualities on the pitch.
It's more about the habits that I have every day
and the small things you do every day, which ultimately lead to
Yeah, Daniel's been very important.
The first time I spoke to him, he told me
And again, it was a big one for me in the way that he spoke,
made me want to join Leeds United.
And I think he's created an environment for me
which I feel comfortable in.
I'd say he's put an arm around me, which some players need,
and probably what I needed when I joined the football club.
You know, the clubs reap the rewards.
And then in relation to Thomas,
I think they're similar in some ways
and I've had so many different managers
over the course of the year.
