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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration 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."

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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