Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years 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 difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe 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 while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds 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 significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."