Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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 setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal 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 previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 had faith and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."