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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak puts 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 lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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