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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

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

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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