Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."