Dominic Calvert-Lewin has opened up about his decision to leave Everton last summer and join Leeds United as a free agent, describing it as the start of a 'second phase' of his career. The 28-year-old striker said he carefully considered his options before choosing a fresh start with the Championship side, drawn by a sense of belonging he discovered on his first day at the club.
'It did feel strange at first, but I would say I knew from the first day that I walked in at Leeds and I heard Yorkshire accents that I felt at home,' Calvert-Lewin told reporters. 'The staff all speaking like me. I felt very comfortable and it's a very close knit group of lads. It's a freeing feeling to be enjoying football like I am at the moment.'
Calvert-Lewin, who spent nine years at Everton, admitted there were moments of uncertainty during his summer as a free agent. He credited his wife and daughter for helping him through the period, which he described as a unique break that reaffirmed his love for the game. 'My wife has been pivotal in those decisions and providing a level head when perhaps I've had a little wobble,' he said.
The England international also acknowledged the mixed reaction from Leeds fans when he joined just days before the season began. 'I was aware of the mixed reviews of me signing for Leeds among the fanbase. But I know the quality that I have and what I would bring, and I've slowly started to feel the shift,' he said, adding that he feels he is playing the best football of his career.
Reflecting on his fitness narrative, Calvert-Lewin insisted he is in a strong place. 'When you get tarred with a certain brush it's hard to shake it off. But here I am, 28, feeling strong, feeling confident and feeling in a great position,' he concluded.
