Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."