The Leeds United striker has earned a return to the national squad after a strong run of form in the Premier League. The 29-year-old has scored four league goals this season and has become an important figure for his club, earning another opportunity to represent England in the Nations League.
However, Kane remains the established first choice and one of the most influential players in the squad. Calvert-Lewin recognises that displacing the Bayern Munich forward is a difficult task, but insists he will be ready if an opportunity arises.
“His record speaks for itself, he’s a fantastic player. He’s the captain of the country and leads it by example. He deserves his recognition at the moment,” Calvert-Lewin told Sky Sports.
The Leeds forward understands the challenge facing anyone attempting to take Kane’s place in the team, but believes the important thing is to remain prepared.
“From my point of view, as a striker competing for that position, it’s a difficult position to be in. Now I’ve been selected, I have to be as ready as possible for when my opportunity comes, if I’m needed.”
Calvert-Lewin also believes there are differences between the way he and Kane approach the centre-forward role, giving Tuchel an alternative depending on the demands of a particular match.
“We are both very different in the way we play. His mentality is very strong. We are similar in that sense. We are both very strong in how we want to play,” he explained.
“His finishing quality, his overall quality and his leadership are something I appreciate. Removing our own personal competition from the situation, as a striker watching another striker, he’s one of the best in the world, so you cannot argue with that.”
Kane’s standing in the England team is supported by his record at international level and his performances for Bayern. The captain remains the focal point of the attack, leaving Calvert-Lewin and the other forwards competing for opportunities when the first-choice striker is unavailable or requires a rest.
For Calvert-Lewin, the priority is to continue performing for Leeds and ensure he is ready whenever Tuchel calls upon him. His return to the international set-up is recognition of the improvement in his club form, but he knows that selection alone does not guarantee minutes.
The striker has scored 14 goals in 14 appearances for England, and will hope to add to that record during the November international fixtures against Croatia and Spain.