Journalist Paul Brown expresses concern over the potential absence of Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin in their crucial relegation showdown against Bournemouth on Sunday, emphasizing that it would be a significant setback, writes the GMS.
A victory in this match would secure the Merseyside club’s Premier League survival, but they may have to face the challenge without their injured striker. According to The Telegraph, there are fears within Everton that the 26-year-old will be unavailable for the crucial encounter after sustaining a hamstring injury during their 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday.
Throughout the season, Calvert-Lewin has struggled with fitness issues, with Transfermarkt valuing him at approximately £22 million. As reported by WhoScored, he has only managed to start in 15 Premier League matches thus far.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Brown said: “Not having Calvert-Lewin is a huge, huge blow. When he’s fit, I think it’s clear to everyone, even some of his detractors this season, that Everton are just a different team. He gives them something special when he plays.
“He hasn’t been that prolific in games when he’s played, but I just think the way the team plays with him and what he gives them in terms of competing with defenders, bullying people, winning possession, laying the ball off and just being a general goal threat, has been incredibly important to Everton. So to be without him for this game is a big blow. They don’t really have anyone else they can rely on for any of those things I just mentioned, so that is a problem.”