Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant 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 summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."