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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent 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.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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