Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."