Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

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

His six-match scoring run places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."