Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning 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 blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only 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 Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "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 turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as 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 get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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