Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."