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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on 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 this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace 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 will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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