Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."