Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."