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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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