Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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