Dominic Calvert-Lewin hails £90k-a-week Everton player who can ‘manipulate games’

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Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has waxed lyrical about Toffees teammate James Rodriguez, praising his ability to “manipulate games”.

The Goodison Park marksman has come on leaps and bounds over the past two seasons.

In 2019-20, Calvert-Lewin scored 15 goals in 41 games in all competitions, and this season, he has 18 from 29 appearances.

James, meanwhile, joined Everton from Real Madrid in September, linking up once again with Carlo Ancelotti, a manager with whom he has a great working relationship.

The 29-year-old hit the ground running on Merseyside, claiming three goals and three assists in his opening five Premier League games.

To date, James has made 21 appearances for Everton, registering five goals and eight assists, though he’s not been playing recently as he looks to recover from a series of knocks.

Speaking to the Everton media team, Calvert-Lewin says a portion of the credit for his goal rush this season is shared with Ancelotti and James.

“James can get on the ball and manipulate games and that created more chances for me,” said the 23-year-old.

“Carlo was insistent on me getting in the box and making the best of my attributes: my power and heading ability and one-touch finishes.

“He wanted me more concentrated in the penalty area and I am continuing to learn and take on board the information he is giving me.”

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It’s great to hear Calvert-Lewin give credit to both Ancelotti and James for helping the Toffees striker hit the next level this season.

The £90k-a-week ace is a top quality player and, once he’s back from his spell on the sidelines, will hopefully be back in top form and can help Everton get back in the Champions League places.