Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring run places him in elite 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 never managed a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."