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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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