Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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