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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match runs.

And the only 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.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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