Crystal Palace travel to Leeds on Saturday with Dominic Calvert-Lewin chasing a piece of club history at Elland Road. The Leeds striker is seeking a goal in six consecutive home league matches, a feat no player for the club has achieved since Arthur Hydes in 1932.
Calvert-Lewin’s form has been closely linked to Daniel Farke’s tactical adjustment. A switch to a back three with two forwards late last November helped him move away from the difficulties he had experienced as a lone striker. Since being paired with Noah Okafor or Lukas Nmecha, his scoring output has improved.
Leeds have used several variations since then, including 3-4-3 and a back four, but the importance of attacking partnerships has remained clear. That will provide a key subplot for Palace as they attempt to contain a forward who is on the verge of extending his home scoring run.
Farke’s side have taken eight points from their opening four matches, giving Leeds their strongest start to a top-flight campaign since David O’Leary’s team in 2001-02. Palace are the next team standing in the way of Calvert-Lewin’s record bid and Leeds’ encouraging early momentum.
