Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better 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 the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent 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 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

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."