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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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