Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."