Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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 did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to 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 expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."