Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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