Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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