09 February 2024 , 23:04
1024
0
Everton will wait until the summer before deciding whether or not to hand Dominic Calvert-Lewin a new contract.
The Toffees striker has just under 18 months left on his current deal at the club. Calvert-Lewin, 26, has gone 17 games without a goal for the Blues but the England striker is at least staying fit this season.
Boss Sean Dyche does see his long-term future being at Goodison Park now he appears to have put his injury woe behind him. He said: “I have never doubted his long-term future here. I think he has shown over the years what a good player he is.
“He has had a couple of indifferent years that have been challenging for him, us and the team, and the relevant managers. He wants to score goals, of course he does – he is a striker, but I think he is enjoying what is around him and I think he is enjoying what we are doing here and he is still working hard at his game.
“I am generally pleased with him but we know he wants goals – and we know we need goals. He is a striker. At the end of the day I think he is relatively pleased with his all round performance apart from adding the key moments, which is scoring.”
Everton chiefs face transfer backlash from fans after deadline day disaster
But Dyche wouldn’t commit on whether Calvert-Lewin will be offered a new contract. “We have been looking at all the contracts,” said the Everton boss ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime kick off with Manchester City. “We are still looking at everything that is in-house. We share that with the agents and make sure everyone, including me and [director of football] Kev [Thelwell], are in the loop, so it is not just him, there are all different situations that need looking at.”
Everton will still be without Abdoulaye Doucoure for Saturday’s game as they look to get out of the bottom three with an upset against City. Dyche will have to watch from the stands as he serves a touchline ban after three yellow cards this season.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin thought he'd scored vs Tottenham, but his header hit Jack Harrison (Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)HAVE YOUR SAY! Should Everton offer Dominic Calvert-Lewin a new contract? Comment below.
The Everton boss is braced for a tough test from the defending Premier League champions. “They’ve got strength in depth," he said. "They’ve got strength in how they work, and they’re a great outfit, without a shadow of a doubt. But you take all these games on. That’s the mentality we want to continue to build here. No matter who you’re playing against, take it on with that clear mindedness to go to focus on you.
“They are in good form and can make many changes due to their squad depth. It is difficult, they are a very good side – we all know that. The mixture has got to be right; you have to defend well but play well and take your chances when they come your way.”
and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our