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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole 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?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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