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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run puts 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 was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "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 box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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