Everton dealt ‘massive blow’ after Calvert-Lewin update – pundit
Everton have been dealt a “massive blow” with Dominic Calvert-Lewin sidelined for several more weeks, according to Noel Whelan.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds striker admitted Salomon Rondon had struggled to lead the line in the 24-year-old’s absence.
Speaking at his press conference on Friday (22nd October), Benitez confirmed Calvert-Lewin could be out for another “four or five” weeks.
The hitman suffered a setback in his recovery from a quad injury.
He has been missing since going off against Brighton in late August.
Whelan admitted Calvert-Lewin’s absence had hit the Toffees hard.
“He’s their focal point through that central area,” Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“Rondon’s struggling in confidence, needs a goal himself. Strikers thrive and get belief and confidence from goals. Right now, he’s struggling.
“I just think Calvert-Lewin is a player that is so important to them through that central area. We’ve seen that he gives you every attribute you want from a the centre forward.
“He runs in behind, he can take the ball into that number 10 position, he comes in from deep. He’s got a great hang time when it comes to aerial ability.
“You miss that focal point up front and he’s definitely one of those players. Rondon is just not the same player. Everton really miss Calvert-Lewin Lewin up there, holding balls up, bringing people into play.
“He can do it all. He’s got that body strength and that aerial ability you need. When you need to go a little bit longer, you know he will keep hold of the ball and bring the midfield players and the wingers in.
“That’s a massive blow for Everton. I think they really need him back. Hopefully, it’s not going to be too long.”
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