Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as just 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 remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest 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 just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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