Garth Crooks makes Calvert-Lewin admission; backs Everton for top four challenge

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Garth Crooks has admitted to BBC Sport that he was previously unsure as to whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin would be able to make the grade in the Premier League, while he also backed Everton to challenge for a top four spot.

The Toffees have lost just one league game since Carlo Ancelotti arrived in December. And they have now won their last two fixtures.

The 3-1 win over Crystal Palace saw Calvert-Lewin take his tally for the campaign to 11 goals in the top flight. He has scored eight times since the start of December.

And Crooks has conceded that the youngster has proved him completely wrong with his recent form as he previously doubted whether he was good enough.

“I must confess there was one stage I didn’t think he had enough for the Premier League but he clearly must be an intelligent lad who listens,” he told BBC Sport. “Since Duncan Ferguson’s temporary involvement in first-team selection, Calvert-Lewin’s game has exploded. However, under Carlo Ancelotti the 22-year-old is starting to look much more composed, especially in front of goal.”

Meanwhile, Crooks also backed Ancelotti’s men to make a move for the top four during the remaining months of the season.

“Three months ago I would have said a top-four place was out of the question for the Toffees. Now I’m not entirely sure,” he went on to add.

It is remarkable to think that Everton were in the bottom three when Marco Silva left in December. They are now ninth in the table, and just five points behind Chelsea.

And with every side above them – barring Liverpool – losing a game more recently, you could certainly see why some may back Everton for a further surge up the table.