Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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