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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."