Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."