Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

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

His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality 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 no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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