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

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

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

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

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits 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 created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed 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 lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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