Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive 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 marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

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

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

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

Intense Competition

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

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

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."