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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for 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 standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach 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."