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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more 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 lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."