Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.

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

Pundits 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 long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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